decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv 

ˈde-kə-ˌrā-

: serving to decorate

especially : purely ornamental

decoratively adverb

decorativeness noun

Synonyms of decorative

• ornamental

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

The idea is less about decorative spectacle than about how a home performs after someone moves in. — Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

The category spans low-risk swaps like cabinet hardware, decorative outlet covers, plug-in lighting, tension rods and static-cling window film, plus higher-risk projects like peel-and-stick wallpaper, accent-wall paint and mounted TVs. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 8 Sep. 2026

The collective term lumped these women together, robbing them of individuality, and reducing them to merely decorative fixtures of Premier-league broadcasts while erasing their individual accomplishments. — Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2026

Rouy, too, is unafraid to make work that is unabashedly handsome, even decorative. — David Lê, Curbed, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing decorative

• decorative art

Kids Definition

decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈdek-(ə-)rət-iv 

ˈdek-ə-ˌrāt-

: serving to decorate : ornamental

decoratively adverb

decorativeness noun