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

• 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 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

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)