decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv How to pronounce decorative (audio)
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
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.
Hair has been a cornerstone of Black beauty and cultural expression since pre-colonial Africa, where braiding was not merely decorative but deeply symbolic. Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025 The City has already implemented more pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly the project along Armour Road with more decorative crosswalks and a bus stop island. Alecia Taylor, Kansas City Star, 9 May 2025 Known as his textile block system, these precast pieces were both structural and decorative devices, creating a more dynamic design compared to a singular monolithic structure. Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 8 May 2025 Another catalyst comes in the form of the company’s mid-February announcement to acquire a Brazilian decorative paints business from BASF for $1.15 billion in cash. Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decorative

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of decorative was in 1791

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Cite this Entry

“Decorative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decorative. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

decorative

adjective
dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈdek-(ə-)rət-iv How to pronounce decorative (audio)
ˈdek-ə-ˌrāt-
: serving to decorate : ornamental
decoratively adverb
decorativeness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on decorative

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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