florid

/ˈflɒɹɪd/

Group 19Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Having a red or flushed complexion; excessively intricate or elaborate
GRE

Example in Context

The novelist's florid style, packed with ornate descriptions and purple prose, divided reviewers sharply.

Synonyms

floweryornateelaborate

Etymology

Originally meant flowery or ornate, now often describes overly elaborate styles.

  • floridus (Latin) — flowered

Memory Aid

🌹Sounds like “florid

Imagine a FLOWER with a RIDICULOUSLY over-the-top costume, screaming ‘I’m FLORID!’

Visual Association

🌸A garden filled with flowers dressed in extravagant costumes, vying for the title of ‘Most Florid’!

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “florid” mean on the GRE?

florid (adjective) means “Having a red or flushed complexion; excessively intricate or elaborate”. The novelist's florid style, packed with ornate descriptions and purple prose, divided reviewers sharply.

How to remember “florid” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “florid” sounds like “florid”. Imagine a FLOWER with a RIDICULOUSLY over-the-top costume, screaming ‘I’m FLORID!’

What are synonyms for “florid”?

Common synonyms: flowery, ornate, elaborate.