optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl 

: involving an option : not compulsory

optionality

ˌäp-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

optionally adverb

Synonyms

• discretionary
• elective
• voluntary

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

As mentioned, the Bellbird comes with a lot of optional upgrades and there are too many to list in full. —Adam Williams may 17, New Atlas, 17 May 2025

Brand building, trust and positioning are essential, not optional. —Raja Walia, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025

Once a week, there’s an optional 30-minute chapel led by the team chaplain before team meetings, Ferguson-Reynolds said. —Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 16 May 2025

Candidates talk transit, future plans Bokhari, Dunn, Jewell, McBride and Paris did not attend Thursday’s forum, which was optional for candidates. —Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 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