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
This black version is sporting optional saddlebags, windscreen and exhaust pipes.
—
William Roberson, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
Fine dining restaurant Joni serves elevated takes on seasonal Canadian fare, including a five-course dinner tasting menu with optional Ontario wine pairings, and a sceney Afternoon Tea that makes for a great interlude between bouts of luxury shopping in the neighborhood.
—Todd Plummer, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Jan. 2026
Decolonization and the restoration of our independence are not optional.
—Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 28 Jan. 2026
Child-friendly features, from a travel crib to fireplace grates, will make your stay more comfortable; several separate bathrooms give everyone their own space; upscale amenities, like heated flooring and optional catering, make every day feel like a treat.
—Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 28 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for optional
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William Roberson, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
Fine dining restaurant Joni serves elevated takes on seasonal Canadian fare, including a five-course dinner tasting menu with optional Ontario wine pairings, and a sceney Afternoon Tea that makes for a great interlude between bouts of luxury shopping in the neighborhood.
—Todd Plummer, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Jan. 2026
Decolonization and the restoration of our independence are not optional.
—Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 28 Jan. 2026
Child-friendly features, from a travel crib to fireplace grates, will make your stay more comfortable; several separate bathrooms give everyone their own space; upscale amenities, like heated flooring and optional catering, make every day feel like a treat.
—Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 28 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for optional
Cite this Entry
“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optional. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.
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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