ornamental 1 of 2

adjective

ˌȯr-nə-ˈmen-tᵊl How to pronounce ornamental (audio)
Definition of ornamentalnext
as in decorative
serving to add beauty the trim on Victorian houses is sometimes elaborately ornamental

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

ornamental

2 of 2

noun

as in ornament
a small object displayed for its attractiveness or interest a collection of fragile ornamentals kept in a glass cabinet

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 ornamental
Adjective
Sliding glass doors opened onto a spacious deck overlooking boulders, ornamental grasses and mature trees. — Heather Senison, New York Times, 5 Nov. 2026 Soft lamb’s ear, ornamental grasses and fuzzy sage give touch. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 30 Oct. 2026
Noun
Late-Modern architect focuses on a sleek design with minimal ornamentals. — Charlotte Observer, 18 Sep. 2026 While this group of pathogens has an extensive range of hosts, it is often observed on woody ornamentals—viburnum or rhododendron, for example—and trees like dogwood or maple. — Emily Leahy, Hartford Courant, 7 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ornamental
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ornamental
  1. decorative
  2. ornament
  3. novelty
  4. souvenir
  5. bauble
  6. knickknack
  7. trinket
Adjective
  • The collaboration also extends deeply into the home, spanning bedding, tableware and decorative objects.
    — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2026
  • That includes the hardwood floors that run through many of the rooms, the wood-beam ceilings on both floors, and the decorative tile and brick fireplaces scattered about.
    — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 9 Nov. 2026
Definition of decorative
Noun
  • There is also a personalization element, with customers able to have a festive ornament engraved or a greeting card written in calligraphy.
    — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2026
  • There’s also a glass Bearista ornament, plush bag charm, an Owala Bearista water bottle, and a glass mug.
    — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 6 Nov. 2026
Definition of ornament
Noun
  • Unlike cheap novelty lasers, the Pococo relies on swappable, scientifically accurate optical discs to cast high-fidelity snapshots of the cosmos across your walls and ceiling.
    — Paul Brett, Space.com, 6 Nov. 2026
  • If novelty is throttled at the plan level, the system can keep broad capabilities like internet access while doing only what was reviewed.
    — Binny Gill, Forbes.com, 6 Nov. 2026
Definition of novelty
Noun
  • The town of Moab is just over 25 miles away and is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat, browse the boutiques for Utah souvenirs, or stop for a sweet treat.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Oct. 2026
  • There are enough puns on signs and souvenirs to exhaust a middle schooler.
    — Harry Bruinius, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of souvenir
Noun
  • This Lulu and Georgia wreath is made of velvety baubles, each with a plush texture and rich hue.
    — Mina Dragani, Architectural Digest, 12 Nov. 2026
  • Candles are decorated with delicate ladybirds, while Christmas tree baubles come with illustrations by Chomet.
    — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2026
Definition of bauble
Noun
  • Arrow Rock Antiques & Mercantile is stocked with vintage knickknacks and home decor items.
    — Erika Ebsworth-Goold, Travel + Leisure, 26 Sep. 2026
  • Décor To complement wall art, look for knickknacks and small décor items, such as statues, decorative trays, faux plants, and ceramic pieces.
    — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 25 Sep. 2026
Definition of knickknack
Noun
  • His work can be both a million-dollar trophy and a teenager’s trinket.
    — Julie Brener Davich, Architectural Digest, 4 Nov. 2026
  • The scented trinkets are presented in a keepsake box that looks like a magical toolkit—as good a place as any to stash makeup tools once the new year begins.
    — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of trinket

Browse Nearby Words

ornament
ornamental
ornamentals
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Cite this Entry

“Ornamental.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ornamental. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on ornamental

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ornamental

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