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 opulent cabin is covered in premium materials, such as wood trim, decorative inlays, and leather upholstery, and features a new lighting setup. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 29 July 2026

Mercedes says the program encompasses more than 200 exterior paints and over 400 interior colors, along with custom leather, stitching and decorative details. — Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

Specifically, the cabinets, in the form of tiny, decorative perforations. — Kelsey Mulvey, Architectural Digest, 27 July 2026

Waiting at the end of the journey was a medium-sized room hidden behind what looked like a decorative mirror, complete with a secret entrance that reminded him of a speakeasy. — Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 27 July 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