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

The open shelf keeps decorations on display and TV remotes handy, while the two drawers underneath offer chic hiding spots for clutter when unexpected guests stop by. —Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Jan. 2026

The angles are chamfered, polished and – something rarely seen in watch decoration – outlined with rhodium plating to catch the light. —Carol Besler, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 2026

Staffers worked the phones from cubicles festooned with Halloween decorations. —Jonathan Blitzer, New Yorker, 19 Jan. 2026

Once the decorations are packed away and the calendar turns from festive and full to routine and stark white, the winter doldrums can really settle in. —Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 19 Jan. 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)