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utilitarian

1 of 2

noun

util·​i·​tar·​i·​an (ˌ)yü-ˌti-lə-ˈter-ē-ən How to pronounce utilitarian (audio)
Synonyms of utilitariannext
: an advocate or adherent of utilitarianism

utilitarian

2 of 2

adjective

1
: of or relating to or advocating utilitarianism
2
: marked by utilitarian views or practices
3
a
: of, relating to, or aiming at utility
b
: exhibiting or preferring mere utility
spare utilitarian furnishings

Examples of utilitarian in a Sentence

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.
Noun
The overall impact leaves even a coffee utilitarian like me giddy. Editors Of Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 Oct. 2025 Lighting should go beyond the utilitarian and make a statement with its style and scale. Amy Panos, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 June 2025
Adjective
This cozy cable knit is held together with two utilitarian clasps—adorable, yet edgy. Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 4 Dec. 2025 The red suede boots appeared alongside that mix, positioned as a refined everyday style within the season’s more utilitarian direction. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 2 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for utilitarian

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1781, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of utilitarian was in 1781

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Cite this Entry

“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/utilitarian. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

utilitarian

adjective
util·​i·​tar·​i·​an
(ˌ)yü-ˌtil-ə-ˈter-ē-ən
1
: of or relating to utility
2
: aiming at usefulness rather than beauty
utilitarian furniture

More from Merriam-Webster on utilitarian

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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