optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl 

: involving an option : not compulsory

optionality

ˌäp-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

optionally adverb

Synonyms of optional

• voluntary
• elective
• discretionary

Examples of optional in a Sentence

Jackets are required at the restaurant, but ties are optional.

Many optional features are available on this car.

Registration is optional, not mandatory.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some states are not only setting the strictest requirements but also blocking out the optional leniency built into the federal rules. —Samantha Liss, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026

Some of these technologies are essential for ensuring the proper functioning of the service or website and cannot be disabled, while others are optional but serve to enhance the user experience in various ways. —Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 15 Apr. 2026

Medicaid coverage All state Medicaid programs cover GLP-1s for type 2 diabetes, but weight loss coverage is optional and left to each state. —Jay Sparks, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

The board is watching What’s different now is that the pressure is structural, not optional. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

: left to one's choice : not required

optional equipment on a new car

optionally

-ē

adverb