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.
Partnerships with platforms like Hometainment provide optional private chefs, mixologists, and wellness experts, turning a quiet night in into something memorable. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 29 Sep. 2025 Resy shouted out the wine selection, which focuses on local options from Arizona and California, and items from the small but stellar dining menu, such as the squash risotto (with optional crab) and the half-chicken with black garlic for two. Endia Fontanez, AZCentral.com, 26 Sep. 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, 26 Sep. 2025 That included early hitting and outfield drills ahead of the team’s optional on-field batting practice. Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Sep. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optional. Accessed 6 Oct. 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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