decoration

noun

dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌde-kə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of decorating

2

: something that adorns, enriches, or beautifies : ornament

3

: a badge of honor (such as a U.S. military award)

Synonyms of decoration

• ornamentation
• ornament
• adornment

Examples of decoration in a Sentence

The vase has a fancy decoration on one side.

a plain sweater knit without decoration

He's a genius at home decoration.

a unique style of decoration

He received a decoration from the President.

Recent Examples on the Web

Start with the layout, including where electrical sockets and lighting need to be, before moving on to the more enjoyable decisions around color and decoration. — Hannah Coates, Vogue, 18 Aug. 2026

Think smiling jack-o'-lanterns, black cats, friendly ghosts, retro blow molds and decorations inspired by Halloweens of decades past. — Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

Visitors can roam its lavish halls to admire the intricate decorations and furnishings in its opulent interiors, from the Throne Room to the Royal Armory. — Jennifer Fernández Solano, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

The decorations actually carry years of family memories, which makes deciding what stays especially personal. — Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing decoration

• for decoration
• interior decoration

Rhymes for decoration

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

decoration

noun

dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌdek-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or action of decorating

2

: something that decorates or beautifies : ornament

holiday decorations

3

: a badge of honor (as a medal, cross, or ribbon)