decoration

noun

dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌde-kə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce decoration (audio)
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)

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
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 New York Times was again amazed at the floral decorations. Elise Taylor, Vogue, 7 July 2025 For his actions, Brewer, 79, was awarded the Silver Star, the third-highest military decoration. Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 July 2025 Its performance is similar to Tojiro’s DP Damascus Nakiri, though its plain steel blade doesn’t feature the decoration or blade strength that comes with Damascus steel. Jesse Raub, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 July 2025 Trees and decorations must not be artificial and must be unflocked, meaning they cannot be covered in a layer of artificial snow or frosting. Karoline Leonard, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for decoration

Word History

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of decoration was in 1585

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Decoration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decoration. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

decoration

noun
dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌdek-ə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce decoration (audio)
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)

More from Merriam-Webster on decoration

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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