optional
adjective
op·tion·al
ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl 
: involving an option : not compulsory
optionally
adverb
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
Traditionally, the sandwiches are served on light, airy baguettes packed with meat, pickled veggies like carrots and cucumber, jalapeños, cilantro and optional pâté.
—
Sunny Hubler, Charlotte Observer, 22 Aug. 2025
To repost, tap the repost icon, add an optional note, and save.
—Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Build systems that evolve with it—iteration isn’t optional.
—Erik Greenstein, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Guests can also request optional suite upgrades.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 12 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for optional
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
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Sunny Hubler, Charlotte Observer, 22 Aug. 2025
To repost, tap the repost icon, add an optional note, and save.
—Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Build systems that evolve with it—iteration isn’t optional.
—Erik Greenstein, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Guests can also request optional suite upgrades.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 12 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for optional
Cite this Entry
“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optional. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
optional
adjective
op·tion·al
ˈäp-shnəl
-shən-ᵊl
: left to one's choice : not required
optional equipment on a new car
optionally
adverb
-ē
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