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.
Identifiable by elaborate braiding, decorative buttons, and often toggles across the chest, military coats — also known as the Hussar jacket or Pelisse — appear to be making a comeback. Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2025 In addition, there will be vintage furniture, decorative pieces, books and magazines, while trunk shows and events are planned for the coming months. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 17 Oct. 2025 The nonprofit organization is accepting donations of dishes, glassware, fine china, jewelry, purses, wallets, household items, figurines, holiday and decorative items that will then be displayed and available for purchase. Sharon Hlapcich, Oc Register, 16 Oct. 2025 For decades they were hunted for their decorative shells and meat to make turtle soup. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 16 Oct. 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 Oct. 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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