Elaborate

/ɪˈlæb.ə.reɪt/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To develop or present (a theoretical concept, proposal, or plan) in detail.

She was asked to elaborate on her initial findings during the conference.

To add more detail concerning what has already been said.

Can you elaborate on your argument to make it more convincing?

To work out in detail or to expand.

The committee decided to elaborate the proposal further before presenting it.

adjective

Involving many careful details and complicated elements; intricate.

The architect presented an elaborate design for the new building.

Marked by intricate and rich detail.

The wedding had an elaborate floral arrangement that captivated all the guests.

from Latin 'elaborare', meaning 'to work out, develop'.

elaborate plan

a carefully thought-out and detailed plan.

elaborate on

to add more detail to something previously mentioned.

elaborate design

a design that is complex and detailed.

elaboration

the process of developing or presenting something in detail.

elaborateness

the quality of being intricate or detailed.

elaborator

someone who elaborates or explains in detail.

to spell it out

When you say that, you need to elaborate for me to get it.

going into detail

Don't just give me the highlights; elaborate on that story.