ˈkɑmplɪkeɪt ˈkɒmplɪkeɪt dɪˈteɪld daɪˈleɪt ɪnˈlɑːd͡ʒ ɪnˈlɑɹd͡ʒ ɛkˈspænd ɪkˈspeɪʃɪeɪt ɪkˈspaʊnd ˈluː.kjə.bɹeɪt lʌɡˈzjʊəɹi.ənt ləɡˈʒʊɹi.ənt ɹɪˈfaɪn ˌwəːk ˈaʊt ˌwɚk ˈaʊt work out in detail elaborate a plan developed or executed with care and in minute detail a detailed plan the elaborate register of the inhabitants prevented tax evasion the carefully elaborated theme make more complex, intricate, or richer refine a design or pattern add details, as to an account or idea; clarify the meaning of and discourse in a learned way, usually in writing She elaborated on the main ideas in her dissertation produce from basic elements or sources; change into a more developed product The bee elaborates honey marked by complexity and richness of detail an elaborate lace pattern