optional
adjective
-shə-nᵊl\
Definition of optional
: involving an option : not compulsory
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Other Words from optional
\
noun
Synonyms & Antonyms for optional
Synonyms
discretionary, elective, voluntary
Antonyms
compulsory, mandatory, nonelective, nonvoluntary, obligatory, required
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Examples of optional in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Inflation guard coverage is sometimes standard and sometimes optional. — Ron Hurtibise, Sun-Sentinel.com, "Do you have enough homeowner insurance? Here's how to find out," 13 July 2018 Lederhosen and dirndl optional. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. July 14, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. July 15 at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road in Timonium. — Chris Kaltenbach, baltimoresun.com, "Spice, sauerkraut and Barenaked Ladies: the best of Baltimore's arts and entertainment scene this week," 8 July 2018 The regular lunch on a recent day consisted of a large serving of rice and beans; carne asada; cooked squash and corn; a salad of lettuce, carrots and jicama; tortillas; and optional flan for dessert. — James Wagner, New York Times, "A Nightmare for Mexico’s Soccer Opponents: More Chuckys On the Way," 27 June 2018 The new Blazer will come with a standard 3.6-liter V6 and optional AWD. — Andrew Moseman, Popular Mechanics, "Chevy Is Bringing Back the Blazer," 22 June 2018 Beauty practices are indulgent and optional; hygiene practices are necessary and required. — Heather Widdows, Time, "Body Hair Is Natural. Society Thinking Otherwise Is Dangerous," 13 June 2018 The jobs in the job guarantee would have to be for work that is either temporary, or optional. — Jonathan Chait, Daily Intelligencer, "Democrats Are Rushing Into a Job Guarantee. It Could Be a Huge Mistake.," 25 Apr. 2018 More than 80 events are set to unfold, meaning there are plenty of options from which to choose, lab attire optional. — Grace Dickinson, Philly.com, "Philadelphia Science Festival: The best events to check out in 2018," 18 Apr. 2018 This is an optional but highly encouraged workout program for the team, and some players will receive bonuses for participation. — Josh Katzenstein, NOLA.com, "See the Saints' offseason workout dates," 2 Apr. 2018These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'optional.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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More Definitions for optional
optional
adjective
English Language Learners Definition of optional
: available as a choice but not required
See the full definition for optional in the English Language Learners Dictionary
optional
adjective
\
Kids Definition of optional
: left to choice : not required Costumes are optional at the party.
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