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.
For brands, this means that integrating creator content into the full shopping journey, both online and offline, is no longer optional. Rodney Mason, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2025 Some of these technologies are essential for ensuring the proper functioning of the service or website and cannot be disabled, while others are optional but serve to enhance the user experience in various ways. Matthew Strauss, Pitchfork, 22 Aug. 2025 Traditionally, the sandwiches are served on light, airy baguettes packed with meat, pickled veggies like carrots and cucumber, jalapeños, cilantro and optional pâté. Sunny Hubler, Charlotte Observer, 22 Aug. 2025 Proceeds benefit local charities through The Woman’s Club of Casselberry. 2 p.m. the second and fourth Sunday of the month, The Woman’s Club of Casselberry, 251 Overbrook Drive, Casselberry, $5 for 10 games plus two optional bonus games, 407-947-2747. Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Aug. 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

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Cite this Entry

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