decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv How to pronounce decorative (audio)
ˈde-kə-ˌrā-
Synonyms of decorativenext
: 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.
My favorite ways to present cookies are in a decorative tin or a brown bakery box with a window and brown parchment. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Dec. 2025 If your orchid is in a decorative pot without drainage holes, take it out of the pot and set the nursery pot in the sink. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 18 Dec. 2025 However, there are decorative elements that do not provide measurable functional gains. Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 18 Dec. 2025 The novel method isn’t only good for decorative projects, however. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 18 Dec. 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 23 Dec. 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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