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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
But these decorative dressings aren’t just for show. Maggie Gillette, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024 Use a fork or your fingers to create a decorative edge. Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 1 Nov. 2024 Repeatedly on the campaign trail, Vice President Kamala Harris has worn modern versions of a cravat—a decorative form of cloth around the neck that can be arranged like a small bow or neck tie or that is tucked into a shirt or blouse. Camille Davis / Made By History, TIME, 1 Nov. 2024 At the same time, stores and cafes are open; the decorative fountains are working; street cleaners are sweeping sidewalks and watering plants. Katya Soldak, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near decorative

Cite this Entry

“Decorative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decorative. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.

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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