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
Brien says wallpaper brings vibrancy to this utilitarian space.
—
Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 22 Feb. 2026
In recent years, kitchens have gone from purely utilitarian spaces to eye-catching design statements.
—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Feb. 2026
In the first few decades, Arpino produced scores of elegant if somewhat utilitarian dances for the Joffrey to fill an evening when money was tight.
—Lauren Warnecke, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2026
Sticking with the utilitarian theme, the collaborative styles are offered in black, green and camouflage colorways.
—Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 17 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 22 Feb. 2026
In recent years, kitchens have gone from purely utilitarian spaces to eye-catching design statements.
—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Feb. 2026
In the first few decades, Arpino produced scores of elegant if somewhat utilitarian dances for the Joffrey to fill an evening when money was tight.
—Lauren Warnecke, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2026
Sticking with the utilitarian theme, the collaborative styles are offered in black, green and camouflage colorways.
—Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 17 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilitarian
Adjective
-
Analysts say Kim's vilification of South Korea reflects his view that Seoul, which helped set up his first meetings with Trump, is no longer a useful intermediary with Washington but an obstacle to his effort to establish a more assertive regional footing.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
27 Feb. 2026
-
Although the underlying mechanisms may differ from tissue to tissue, and from organism to organism, the apparent ubiquity of these processes suggests that fracturing is a useful, if counterintuitive, way to sculpt tissues and their vital features.—
Clare Watson,
Quanta Magazine,
27 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
Soluble fiber is effective for lowering cholesterol, supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system, and keeping stools soft and easy to pass.—
Jillian Kubala,
Health,
26 Feb. 2026
-
While many insects are beneficial for your garden, others can wreak havoc on your plants.—
Madeline Buiano,
Martha Stewart,
26 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilitarian. Accessed 2 Mar. 2026.
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