optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce optional (audio)
: involving an option : not compulsory
optionality noun
optionally adverb

Examples of optional in a Sentence

Jackets are required at the restaurant, but ties are optional. Many optional features are available on this car. Registration is optional, not mandatory.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The price of the base model is kept low by forgoing some amenities, but these are readily available as optional convenience packages. Peter Douglas, The Mercury News, 10 Nov. 2024 Add in a pinch of salt (optional splash of vinegar) and bring to a boil 2. Ashia Aubourg, Outside Online, 8 Nov. 2024 Weather can sway election outcomes, especially in a country like the U.S. where voting is optional, many races are close and the weather itself can be extreme. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 Initiative 2124, meanwhile, would make participation in Washington's long-term care program optional. Melissa Santos, Axios, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for optional 

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optional was in 1765

Dictionary Entries Near optional

Cite this Entry

“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optional. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

optional

adjective
op·​tion·​al ˈäp-shnəl How to pronounce optional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
: left to one's choice : not required
optional equipment on a new car
optionally
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on optional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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