elective 1 of 2

Definition of electivenext
as in optional
subject to one's freedom of choice a plastic surgeon who mainly does face-lifting and other kinds of elective surgery

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

elective

2 of 2

noun

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of elective
Adjective
That would be especially helpful given that Newsom, as a parting gesture, wants to all but eliminate the elective office of state superintendent of public instruction and vest nearly all education oversight in the governor’s office. Dan Walters, Mercury News, 27 May 2026 However, for the substantial and expanding volume of elective spine, neurovascular, and functional procedures, the ASC model has emerged as a safe, effective, and patient-centric alternative. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026
Noun
Sofia Gomez, an aspiring educator and UT freshman, took a women’s and gender studies class as an elective her first semester. Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 22 Feb. 2026 Three years ago, the district had to eliminate one elective and currently only offers art and music. Alexandra Hardle, AZCentral.com, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for elective
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elective
Adjective
  • The optional add-on service will not guarantee visa approvals, and the State Department will name which missions offer it before launch, with any extension hinging on traveler demand.
    Matthew Lee, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
  • Once boundaries are established, the collar delivers warnings (like tones or optional static feedback) if your dog approaches or crosses the set perimeter, helping reinforce training over time.
    Rachel Cortez, USA Today, 8 June 2026
Noun
  • Here follows a Simple Satanic Sunday School refresher of how all the major players relate to one another from a vampire-creation perspective.
    Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 7 June 2026
  • The ingredients are combined in a blender, resulting in a creamy treat that's a perfect refresher for hot days.
    Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 28 May 2026
Noun
  • And in order to maintain a nutritious balance to each of these meals, consider adding cut-up vegetables (like celery or carrots) or fruit (strawberries or blueberries are easy options) to the plate.
    Stephanie Ganz, Parents, 7 June 2026
  • Whatever option the department lands on could cause more drama.
    Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 7 June 2026
Adjective
  • That distinction helps explain why federal agencies appear willing to collaborate with AI developers through voluntary testing programs while simultaneously maintaining detailed compliance frameworks for crypto firms.
    Sean Stein Smith, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026
  • Another approach to cutting down the workforce is voluntary layoffs, a move that rewards loyal workers.
    Jacqueline Munis, Fortune, 6 June 2026
Noun
  • But for a nation of navigators, there is no course a team this talented cannot plot.
    James Horncastle, New York Times, 10 June 2026
  • This World Cup, like Yamal’s sentiments, reflects FIFA’s determination to chart a new course and, as its critics charge, a disregard for the sport’s past and its millions of fans.
    Scott M. Reid, Oc Register, 10 June 2026
Noun
  • As part of their preparations, the 52 referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 video match officials (VMOs) have gathered in Miami for a 10-day seminar, which began over the weekend.
    Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 8 June 2026
  • Every speaker and panelist at the business seminar was chosen with intention, in addition to the three-day event’s second-year location, at Wind Creek Chicago Southland casino, Kemp said.
    Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 5 June 2026
Noun
  • On Tuesday, the clinic also posted a video on its Instagram account highlighting emergency equipment, including a crash cart, and personnel available at the facility.
    Ivan Taylor, CBS News, 11 June 2026
  • Lucia was referring to a low-cost clinic where people lined up for treatment for everything from cuts and broken bones to heart disease.
    Ann Larson, Time, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • Don’t miss the outdoor yoga classes taught outside on the beachside pavilion beneath the rainforest canopy twice per day (complimentary for all guests).
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 June 2026
  • America’s next president, and the class of senators elected this November, seem all but guaranteed to face the politically perilous task of addressing Social Security’s imminent insolvency before the end of their term.
    Ben Ritz, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Elective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elective. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.

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