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

• 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

On the contrary, a minimalist home can be both cozy, deeply personal, and set in a small space—just with decorative restraint in mind. —Amelia Mularz, Architectural Digest, 13 Aug. 2025

Unfortunately, many decorative planters don't include drainage holes despite this fact. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 12 Aug. 2025

Why Certifications Matter When Hiring A Financial Advisor Certifications are not just decorative letters after someone’s name. —True Tamplin, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025

There are Detroit-style pizzas, more like focaccias topped with dollops of ricotta the way a baker would pipe icing onto a decorative cake. —Lyndsay C. Green, Freep.com, 7 Aug. 2025

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