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
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
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Recent Examples of ornamental
Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
Indiana has rich biodiversity with thousands of species in unique habitats, but the ornamental plant trade, globalization and development have introduced new threats to these ecosystems.
—Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 10 Dec. 2025
New Atlas, 20 Nov. 2025
But while many edibles and ornamentals make good companions for apples and other fruit trees, some plants just don't belong in your backyard orchard.
—Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ornamental
Adjective
And, a gamble for any book publisher skittish about the fine ornamental lines disappearing when reduced to postage stamp size online.
—Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025
Indiana has rich biodiversity with thousands of species in unique habitats, but the ornamental plant trade, globalization and development have introduced new threats to these ecosystems.
—Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 10 Dec. 2025
Noun
But the form is far from ornamental.
—New Atlas, 20 Nov. 2025
But while many edibles and ornamentals make good companions for apples and other fruit trees, some plants just don't belong in your backyard orchard.
—Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ornamental
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ornamental
Adjective
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With sturdy construction, ample shelf space, and glass doors, china cabinets are excellent for storing and displaying delicate china sets, trinkets, decorative plates, heirloom decor, and more.—
Alicia Geigel,
Southern Living,
7 Jan. 2026
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Proper Poinsettia Care as a Perennial In order to keep your poinsettia happy and blooming, the decorative foil is the first thing that has got to go.—
Lauren Landers,
The Spruce,
7 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
After removing ornaments and dusting your tree, go ahead and dismantle it.—
Brandee Gruener,
Southern Living,
7 Jan. 2026
-
The Four Freedoms Roosevelt named were not rhetorical ornaments offered as inspiration so much as a diagnosis.—
Philip Martin,
Washington Post,
7 Jan. 2026
Noun
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The Mash-Up Drink Trend, Explained Cocktail mashups combine the familiarity of a classic cocktail with the novelty of something new, which is a frequent recipe for success, according to marketing pro and trendspotter Andrew Freeman.—
Karla Walsh,
Better Homes & Gardens,
11 Jan. 2026
-
Hiddleston is still dashing, but the novelty of the actor as an action hero is gone.—
Kelly Lawler,
USA Today,
11 Jan. 2026
Noun
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For most fans, bringing home a souvenir from a live sporting event is one of the most exciting things to experience.—
Josh Taylor,
CBS News,
8 Jan. 2026
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Souvenir pin and midway wristband For those looking to go to the Stock Show more than once, a souvenir pin or midway wristband may be the way to go.—
Brayden Garcia
January 8,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
8 Jan. 2026
Noun
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January can feel a bit dreary, especially after the all the holiday baubles and Christmas lights are packed away.—
Cameron Beall,
Southern Living,
8 Jan. 2026
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Statement-making jewelry was the route Harris and Mirren opted for, tapping designer Margot McKinney for the actress’ baubles.—
Julia Teti,
Footwear News,
7 Jan. 2026
Noun
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Displaying knickknacks on trays is one easy way to corral visual clutter, and sticking to a limited color palette throughout your home will make your other design choices look more intentional.—
Tessa Cooper,
Better Homes & Gardens,
10 Jan. 2026
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Portland artist Maggie Rudy has a knack for knickknacks.—
Air Mail,
Air Mail,
6 Dec. 2025
Noun
-
With sturdy construction, ample shelf space, and glass doors, china cabinets are excellent for storing and displaying delicate china sets, trinkets, decorative plates, heirloom decor, and more.—
Alicia Geigel,
Southern Living,
7 Jan. 2026
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Living party favors add a fresh twist, with potted plants and propagated cuttings replacing traditional trinkets.—
Colleen Sullivan,
Better Homes & Gardens,
7 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Ornamental.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ornamental. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
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