as in useful
capable of being put to use or account
She found his theories utilitarian in constructing her own.
of, relating to, or being a method of computer programming in which each step of the solution to a problem is contained in a separate subprogram
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Recent Examples of utilitarian
This emphasis on the apartment’s utilitarian functions is not to discredit its aesthetics, either.
—
Hannah Towey, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 June 2026
Some hosts may feel comfortable simply pointing you in the right direction, but others may prefer keeping utilitarian spaces out of sight.
—Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 8 June 2026
Many companies offer grab bars for bathrooms that are more stylish for residential properties than the old, utilitarian style common in commercial spaces, Schmidt says.
—Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026
Cargo jeans are just as versatile as regular denim, with a utilitarian edge.
—Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 6 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Hannah Towey, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 June 2026
Some hosts may feel comfortable simply pointing you in the right direction, but others may prefer keeping utilitarian spaces out of sight.
—Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 8 June 2026
Many companies offer grab bars for bathrooms that are more stylish for residential properties than the old, utilitarian style common in commercial spaces, Schmidt says.
—Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026
Cargo jeans are just as versatile as regular denim, with a utilitarian edge.
—Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 6 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilitarian
Adjective
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The resulting material delivers an energy content comparable to anthracite coal, offering a potential pathway for turning difficult waste streams into useful resources.—
Aamir Khollam,
Interesting Engineering,
19 June 2026
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Our expert take The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a low-fee card with generous cash-back rewards and useful ongoing benefits, such as a monthly Disney Bundle credit.—
Kelsey Neubauer,
CNBC,
19 June 2026
Adjective
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Medical professionals who specialize in addiction medicine say research that provides a clear understanding of kratom is beneficial.—
Karen Garcia,
Los Angeles Times,
19 June 2026
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But in the garden, chervil is a powerhouse plant that can deter slugs and snails, while attracting beneficial bugs like hoverflies and ladybugs.—
Lauren Landers,
Better Homes & Gardens,
18 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilitarian. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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