1. the practice or theory of using ornament or decoration as a primary aesthetic or cultural principle; emphasis on ornamental rather than functional or structural elements
Usage: often used in art history and architectural criticism; can refer to a historical or cultural movement
2. a system of imperial or colonial rule that emphasizes cultural superiority and the imposition of aesthetic or civilizational standards on subject peoples
Usage: academic and postcolonial studies term; associated with 19th and 20th century imperialism

Examples

• The Victorian era was characterized by ornamentalism in architecture, with buildings covered in elaborate decorative details.
• Art historians debate whether ornamentalism represents genuine aesthetic value or merely excessive embellishment.
• The museum's exhibition explored how ornamentalism served as a tool of cultural domination during the colonial period.
• Modernist designers rejected the ornamentalism of previous centuries in favor of clean, functional forms.
• Critics argue that ornamentalism in imperial policy masked the exploitation of colonized territories.
• The ornamentalism of the palace's interior design reflected the wealth and power of the ruling dynasty.