I. bə-ˈrōk, ba-, -ˈräk, -ˈrȯk adjective
Usage: often capitalized
Etymology: French, from Middle French barroque irregularly shaped (of a pearl), from Portuguese barroco irregularly shaped pearl
Date: 1765
1. : of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a style of artistic expression prevalent especially in the 17th century that is marked generally by use of complex forms, bold ornamentation, and the juxtaposition of contrasting elements often conveying a sense of drama, movement, and tension
2. : characterized by grotesqueness, extravagance, complexity, or flamboyance
3. : irregularly shaped — used of gems
a baroque pearl
• ba·roque·ly adverb
II. noun
Usage: often capitalized
Date: 1877
: the baroque style or the period in which it flourished