optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl 

: involving an option : not compulsory

optionality

ˌäp-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

optionally adverb

Synonyms of optional

• voluntary
• elective
• discretionary

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

Many opponents of Housing First policies don’t think services such as addiction and mental health treatment should be optional. — Laura Ungar, Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 2026

Residents should contact their supervisor of elections for optional days of early voting specific to counties. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 30 Sep. 2026

The bottom edge has two small attachment points for accessories, such as Samsung’s optional keyboard cover. — Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 30 Sep. 2026

Watch for policy proposals that would cover professional home assessments for adults over a certain age, which would shift aging in place preparation from optional to routine. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 30 Sep. 2026

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