decorative
adjective
dec·o·ra·tive
ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv 
ˈde-kə-ˌrā-
: serving to decorate
especially
: purely ornamental
decoratively
adverb
decorativeness
noun
Examples of decorative in a Sentence
We added some decorative details to the room.
The handles are decorative and practical.
Recent Examples on the Web
The design is streamlined, but six decorative inlaid steel rondels on each side of the handle add a little panache.
—
Emily Johnson, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 Mar. 2026
Tie-top curtains attach to the rod with fabric ties that are knotted or bowed at the top, giving them a relaxed, decorative look.
—Kansas City Star, 17 Mar. 2026
Clay molding is another tradition with deep roots in the region, with local artists shaping clay into decorative pieces, household objects, and ceremonial works using techniques that have been passed down for generations.
—Latifah Al Hazza, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026
Few decorative pieces possess the power to elevate a yardscape quite like the best outdoor rugs.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for decorative
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Emily Johnson, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 Mar. 2026
Tie-top curtains attach to the rod with fabric ties that are knotted or bowed at the top, giving them a relaxed, decorative look.
—Kansas City Star, 17 Mar. 2026
Clay molding is another tradition with deep roots in the region, with local artists shaping clay into decorative pieces, household objects, and ceremonial works using techniques that have been passed down for generations.
—Latifah Al Hazza, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026
Few decorative pieces possess the power to elevate a yardscape quite like the best outdoor rugs.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for decorative
Cite this Entry
“Decorative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decorative. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
decorative
adjective
dec·o·ra·tive
ˈdek-(ə-)rət-iv
ˈdek-ə-ˌrāt-
: serving to decorate : ornamental
decoratively
adverb
decorativeness
noun
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