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

Set the scene The Pinch sits on King Street’s popular north-south artery of clothing shops, wine bars, palm trees, and decorative facades. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

The minimalist, open-plan five-bedroom features marble floors, walls of glass framing the water, a floating wood staircase, a white kitchen, and baths punctuated with decorative tile. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 5 Oct. 2026

The architecture throughout Dearborn Park is very much a product of its time — a form of minimalist masonry late modern for Phase I and more decorative postmodern for Phase II. — Edward Keegan, Chicago Tribune, 4 Oct. 2026

Use it as a candy bowl or for snacks like puppy chow, cookies, and other finger foods to add a decorative touch to your countertop spread, then cover it with the lid to store any extras. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 2 Oct. 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