Main Entry: 1ba·roque Pronunciation: b&-'rOk, ba-, -'räk, -'rok Function: 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 - ba·roque·ly adverb