optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce optional (audio)
: involving an option : not compulsory
optionality noun
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The company and store owners sued, arguing players could use an optional preview feature, removing the element of chance. Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 27 Oct. 2025 That kind of support is no longer optional at accredited cancer centers. Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 27 Oct. 2025 Manners seem to be optional these days. Christopher Elliott, USA Today, 27 Oct. 2025 These gadgets include single or double kettlebell handles, an EZ curl bar, a straight bar, plus an optional pulley system and set of elastic resistance bands. New Atlas, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for optional

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optional was in 1765

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optional. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

optional

adjective
op·​tion·​al ˈäp-shnəl How to pronounce optional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
: left to one's choice : not required
optional equipment on a new car
optionally
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on optional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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