gorgeous

Definition

Sumptuously dressed.

Etymology

From Middle English gorgeouse, a borrowing from Middle French gorgias (“elegant, fashionable”), from Old French gourgias, gorgias (“gorgeous, gaudy, flaunting, gallant, fine”), of uncertain origin, but apparently connected with Old French gorgias (“a gorget, ruffle for the neck”), from Old French gorge (“bosom, throat”). See gorge. Semantic evolution probably akin to "swelling of the throat or bosom due to pride, bridling up" to "assume an air of importance, flaunting".

Example Sentences

• "Two or three of them wore polished silk hats, elaborate shirt-fronts, diamond breastpins, kid gloves, and patent-leather boots...The others were more or less loosely clad...One of the gorgeous ones remarked..."
• "All the contest judges agreed that Brigitt was absolutely gorgeous."
• "The sunsets in Hawaii are gorgeous."

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