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

Monitor risers, laptop stands and external keyboards will stop being optional add-ons for remote workers and start being treated as standard health equipment — the way an office chair is now. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 22 July 2026

The Meter Just Started Running Measurement was optional when AI came at a flat monthly rate. — Terdawn Deboe, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Thanks to Hegseth, military aviators have learned that rules are optional as long as top leadership thinks your stunt looked cool. — Brynn Tannehill, The Atlantic, 21 July 2026

An optional insurance add-on, called a rider, can expand coverage to include sudden internal failures of HVAC systems. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 21 July 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