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
Given how much of the series takes place in the bar referenced in the title, making sure that set was as expressive and utilitarian as possible was essential.
—
Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 29 May 2025
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, 13 June 2025
Presenting the collaboration in Florence underscores Italy’s impact on denim and the fabric’s transformation from utilitarian workwear to a canvas for sartorial experimentation and artistic expression.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 13 June 2025
Doctoring provides powerful tools for getting under the hood, but writing offers ones that dig into the interstitial spaces where our more utilitarian tools falter.
—Danielle Ofri, New Yorker, 7 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 29 May 2025
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, 13 June 2025
Presenting the collaboration in Florence underscores Italy’s impact on denim and the fabric’s transformation from utilitarian workwear to a canvas for sartorial experimentation and artistic expression.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 13 June 2025
Doctoring provides powerful tools for getting under the hood, but writing offers ones that dig into the interstitial spaces where our more utilitarian tools falter.
—Danielle Ofri, New Yorker, 7 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilitarian
Adjective
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These are much more useful for decks and outdoor cleaning, because their strength and efficiency can actually lead to interior damage.—
Quincy Bulin,
Southern Living,
30 June 2025
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This is what makes average household income so useful in this analysis of the wealthiest cities in Arkansas.—
Andrew DePietro,
Forbes.com,
30 June 2025
Adjective
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Experts say any walking is beneficial, but intervals may boost fitness and break plateaus.—
Cathy Cassata,
Health,
19 June 2025
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Guidelines that distinguish between AI as a learning tool and AI as a substitute for learning are beneficial to both teachers and students.—
Sarah Hernholm,
Forbes.com,
19 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilitarian. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.
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