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
For those who prefer more utilitarian office furniture, Herman Miller also sells folding drafting tables, traditional office chairs, and task lighting.
—
Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2025
The Shakers — only two members remain, largely due to the sect’s dedication to celibacy — became known for their utilitarian design and architecture that prioritized functionality, simplicity and craftsmanship.
—Alex Ritman, Variety, 22 Aug. 2025
Edmonds devotes the second half of his book to detractors of the pond and to opponents of a utilitarian approach to aid—some of whom, of course, have developed thought experiments of their own.
—Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 20 Aug. 2025
Courthouses and judicial centers, often built in brutalist or utilitarian styles, dominated the top of the list.
—Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 19 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2025
The Shakers — only two members remain, largely due to the sect’s dedication to celibacy — became known for their utilitarian design and architecture that prioritized functionality, simplicity and craftsmanship.
—Alex Ritman, Variety, 22 Aug. 2025
Edmonds devotes the second half of his book to detractors of the pond and to opponents of a utilitarian approach to aid—some of whom, of course, have developed thought experiments of their own.
—Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 20 Aug. 2025
Courthouses and judicial centers, often built in brutalist or utilitarian styles, dominated the top of the list.
—Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 19 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for utilitarian
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilitarian
Adjective
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These are environmentally friendly and useful for carrying more snacks on your flight home.—
Jessie Beck,
AFAR Media,
16 Sep. 2025
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Our expert take The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is an excellent business card with useful benefits, valuable rewards and a generous welcome bonus.—
Jason Stauffer,
CNBC,
15 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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During sleep, heart rate and blood pressure drop too, which is beneficial for the little vessels in your brain.—
Erica Sloan,
SELF,
10 Sep. 2025
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Foliage color can vary between individual trees, which is why planting–and shopping–in fall is beneficial.—
Kim Toscano,
Southern Living,
10 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilitarian. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.
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