The adjective is pronounced /ɪlæbərət/. The verb is pronounced /ɪlæbəreɪt/.
( elaborating, elaborated)
1.
You use elaborate to describe something that is very complex because it has a lot of different parts.
...an elaborate research project.
...an elaborate ceremony that lasts for eight days.
= complicated
ADJ : usu ADJ n
2.
Elaborate plans, systems, and procedures are complicated because they have been planned in very great detail, sometimes too much detail.
...elaborate efforts at the highest level to conceal the problem.
...an elaborate management training scheme for graduates.
= complicated
ADJ : usu ADJ n
• elabo‧rate‧ly
It was clearly an elaborately planned operation.
ADV
3.
Elaborate clothing or material is made with a lot of detailed artistic designs.
He is known for his elaborate costumes.
ADJ : usu ADJ n
• elabo‧rate‧ly
...elaborately costumed dolls.
ADV
4.
If you elaborate a plan or theory, you develop it by making it more complicated and more effective.
His task was to elaborate policies which would make a market economy compatible with a clean environment.
VERB : V n
• elabo‧ra‧tion
...the elaboration of specific policies and mechanisms.
N-UNCOUNT : oft N of n
5.
If you elaborate on something that has been said, you say more about it, or give more details.
A spokesman declined to elaborate on a statement released late yesterday...
Would you care to elaborate?
VERB : V on n , V