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 decoration trend draws inspiration from the American designer and classic brand of the same name, Ralph Lauren, and focuses on certain elements found in his home and clothing decor lines. —Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 13 Nov. 2025

The private company that operates a community of homes near Tyndall Air Force Base has recently instructed residents to remove their Yuletide decorations and refrain from putting them back up until after Turkey Day. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 13 Nov. 2025

There’s nothing like Fifth Avenue during the holiday season with its festive windows, glittery holiday decorations and congested sidewalks crammed with shoppers, tourists and street vendors. —David Moin, Footwear News, 13 Nov. 2025

Many of us like to put up Christmas decorations on November 1, but that's too early to buy a real Christmas tree. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 12 Nov. 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)