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

The overall objective is to educate guests on how to have a sustainable and enjoyable eating plan that continues post-stay—there are optional cooking classes to help establish the ground rules. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 May 2026

With May 23 marking one year in remission, Sullivan says restarting her vaccines was never optional in her eyes. —Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 23 May 2026

Garnish with a strawberry slice, a light crack of black pepper, and optional basil leaf. —Claudia Alarcón, Forbes.com, 23 May 2026

In addition, San Diego High’s Liliana Mendoza, who was last year’s all-around optional champion, finished 13th in the all-around scoring, including placing 11th in beam. —Breven Honda, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 May 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