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

If consequences are optional, deterrence is imaginary. —Darlene Mealy, New York Daily News, 25 Apr. 2026

As mentioned, there are lots of optional upgrades available for the Smile, including an off-grid system with solar panels, batteries, and water harvesting. —Adam Williams april 25, New Atlas, 25 Apr. 2026

According to the company's website, the entrances to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park that include facial recognition technology are completely optional. —Ingrid Vasquez, PEOPLE, 25 Apr. 2026

Miss Manners assures you that everything after thanking him was optional. —Judith Martin, Mercury News, 24 Apr. 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