decoration

noun

dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌde-kə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of decorating

2

: something that adorns, enriches, or beautifies : ornament

3

: a badge of honor (such as a U.S. military award)

Synonyms

• adornment
• beautifier
• caparison
• doodad
• embellisher
• embellishment
• frill
• garnish
• garnishment
• garniture
• ornament
• ornamentation
• setoff
• trim

Examples of decoration in a Sentence

The vase has a fancy decoration on one side.

a plain sweater knit without decoration

He's a genius at home decoration.

a unique style of decoration

He received a decoration from the President.

Recent Examples on the Web

Fortunately, Amazon’s home department has a new section that’s filled with all kinds of fun Valentine’s Day decorations. —Isabel Garcia, People.com, 1 Feb. 2025

He was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973, and later awarded the Silver Star for Valor, Purple Heart, and P.O.W. medal among many other military decorations and awards. —Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 31 Jan. 2025

Upon ordering, the bakery also offers fun decorations and gift options. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2025

Transforming your space can be just as fun as the party itself, especially when there are so many fun and quirky decorations available online. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 29 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing decoration

• for decoration
• interior decoration

Kids Definition

decoration

noun

dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌdek-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or action of decorating

2

: something that decorates or beautifies : ornament

holiday decorations

3

: a badge of honor (as a medal, cross, or ribbon)