decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv 

ˈde-kə-ˌrā-

: serving to decorate

especially : purely ornamental

decoratively adverb

decorativeness noun

Synonyms of decorative

• ornamental

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 period-relevant portraits lining the walls, decorative accessories, and the bed with a canopy headboard transported us to another century. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Aug. 2026

Georgian-style design remains, complete with sash windows, decorative cornicing, plus an original fireplace and pine floorboards. — Katie Silcox, Vogue, 6 Aug. 2026

This other person accidentally broke a decorative piece in the bathroom which upon the fall, broke a sink, resulting in a hole in the porcelain. — R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026

By all accounts, Katherine was a formidable presence—intellectually engaged, fluent in multiple languages, a guiding force in her children’s lives—and the painting honors that, depicting her reading rather than posing in decorative idleness. — Carmen Rosenberg-Miller, Artforum, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing decorative

• decorative art

Kids Definition

decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈdek-(ə-)rət-iv 

ˈdek-ə-ˌrāt-

: serving to decorate : ornamental

decoratively adverb

decorativeness noun