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 duo also embraced the decorative cabinetry by 17th- and 18th-century marquetry master Giuseppe Maggiolini. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 2 Nov. 2026

Denise Wunder, a retired sandwich shop manager, pulled up to the center in a van featuring a decorative license plate with an American eagle. — Marc Levy, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026

At just over 10 inches, this red cast-iron dish has decorative holly berries around the lid. — Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2026

The vessels have also undergone safety inspections and decorative work in preparation for the event. — ABC News, 1 Nov. 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