florid
UK[ˈflɒrɪd]US[ˈflɔːrɪd]
adj
having a red or flushed complexion.
adj
excessively intricate or elaborate; ornate.
Morpheme Breakdown
flor
id
flor
flower
id
adjective suffix
Etymology
the word florid entered english in the mid-17th century, directly from the latin adjective 'floridus', which itself derives from 'flōs, flōr-', meaning 'flower'. the literal sense was 'flowery, abounding in flowers'. this concrete meaning evolved metaphorically in english to describe a complexion that is ruddy or flushed with a rosy, flower-like color. further abstraction extended the sense to language, decoration, or style that is excessively ornate or elaborately embellished, much like a profusion of flowers.
Analysis
Structure: flor (flower) + id (adjective suffix)
flor originates from latin 'flōs, flōr-' meaning 'flower'. id is a latin adjectival suffix meaning 'having the quality of'.
Examples
his florid face suggested he had been out in the cold wind.
the architect was criticized for the building's florid and gaudy decorations.
she writes in a florid prose style, full of elaborate metaphors and adjectives.