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

• adornment
• beautifier
• caparison
• doodad
• embellisher
• embellishment
• frill
• garnish
• garnishment
• garniture
• ornament
• ornamentation
• setoff
• trim

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

Along with a glimmering Christmas display of ornaments and decorations, the Guamans have collections of garden and holiday gnomes. —Emily M. Olson, Hartford Courant, 19 June 2025

For some, July 4th gatherings focus on fireworks, games, and decorations. —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 16 June 2025

There are decorations available to conceal the device. —Kara McGinley, USA Today, 11 June 2025

Their mystical surface decorations, particularly animal images, served as a means to communicate with spirits and deities. —Jane Levere, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025

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)