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
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar 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 utilitarian
The exterior can be left as-is for a utilitarian look or partially finished in wood.
—
Adam Williams
may 20, New Atlas, 20 May 2025
Below, members of Forbes Business Council share their best tips for shaping a space that’s truly inspirational rather than simply utilitarian.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Each piece in this collection includes a stone adornment—as a lid-opener or handle—that transforms utilitarian objects into jewelry for your table.
—Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 11 June 2025
Protective eyewear is usually regarded as necessary, utilitarian, and uncomfortable.
—Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 11 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Adam Williams
may 20, New Atlas, 20 May 2025
Below, members of Forbes Business Council share their best tips for shaping a space that’s truly inspirational rather than simply utilitarian.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Each piece in this collection includes a stone adornment—as a lid-opener or handle—that transforms utilitarian objects into jewelry for your table.
—Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 11 June 2025
Protective eyewear is usually regarded as necessary, utilitarian, and uncomfortable.
—Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 11 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilitarian
Adjective
-
There's no doubt that fanny packs are useful travel bags, but they’re not always considered to be the most fashion-forward option.—
Asia London Palomba,
Travel + Leisure,
12 July 2025
-
The Pixel 9 Pro XL produces great photos that capture outstanding, clear details, and the generative AI app, Pixel Studio, is a fun and useful creative tool.—
Jade Chung-Lee,
PC Magazine,
12 July 2025
Adjective
-
Both experts say that dry brushing, the physical exfoliant that sloughs away dead skin cells, can be beneficial to keeping strawberry legs at bay.—
Audrey Noble,
Vogue,
1 July 2025
-
Earlier research from 2013 also highlighted video games' ability to enhance problem-solving skills, suggesting video games are more beneficial to cognitive development than previously thought.—
George Toh,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilitarian. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share