optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl 

: involving an option : not compulsory

optionality

ˌäp-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

optionally adverb

Synonyms of optional

• voluntary
• elective
• discretionary

Examples of optional in a Sentence

Jackets are required at the restaurant, but ties are optional.

Many optional features are available on this car.

Registration is optional, not mandatory.

Recent Examples on the Web

Tickets are available online, with optional add-ons like photos with Santa and a 4D theater experience. —Duante Beddingfield, Freep.com, 15 Nov. 2025

Said to trace its roots all the way back to the 1860s and a seaside fish and chips shop in Lancashire, England, the chip butty can be doused with optional condiments ranging from ketchup and malt vinegar to mayonnaise. —Terry Ward, CNN Money, 15 Nov. 2025

Load times feel snappier, big game installs move quicker, and the optional heatsink fits neatly in Sony’s console without hassle. —PC Magazine, 15 Nov. 2025

Both of these are mounted on the floorboard, but Zero also offers you an optional third battery. —New Atlas, 15 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

: left to one's choice : not required

optional equipment on a new car

optionally

-ē

adverb