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.
The pants have a high-rise silhouette and multiple decorative and functional pockets on both the front and back. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 2025 Stylish features include pleats and decorative buttons on the waistline and ankles. Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 6 Nov. 2025 What really makes the dress stand out is its chic details, which includes a structured seam around the waist, gold-tone decorative buttons, and a mock neckline. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 5 Nov. 2025 Somewhere between modern and antique, ornate and modest, decorative and practical is this botanical print and stem green earthenware from Anthropologie. Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 4 Nov. 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 9 Nov. 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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