decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv How to pronounce decorative (audio)
ˈde-kə-ˌrā-
: serving to decorate
especially : purely ornamental
decoratively adverb
decorativeness noun

Examples of decorative in a Sentence

We added some decorative details to the room. The handles are decorative and practical.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Beyond this, chromium shines in decorative chrome plating for automobiles, fixtures, and machinery. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2025 The design will have a new sound system, decorative lighting that can change color, and more space where new art can be added in the future. Maya Bell, Twin Cities, 25 Sep. 2025 Wrap each box in festive paper or paint it with Halloween motifs, number them, and stack them in a decorative pyramid or spread them across a shelf. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2025 Sigmon recommends mixing functional items like matching plates and bowls with decorative pieces like art, vases, and books. Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decorative

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of decorative was in 1791

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Cite this Entry

“Decorative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decorative. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

decorative

adjective
dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈdek-(ə-)rət-iv How to pronounce decorative (audio)
ˈdek-ə-ˌrāt-
: serving to decorate : ornamental
decoratively adverb
decorativeness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on decorative

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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