decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv How to pronounce decorative (audio)
ˈde-kə-ˌrā-
: serving to decorate
especially : purely ornamental
decoratively adverb
decorativeness noun

Examples of decorative in a Sentence

We added some decorative details to the room. The handles are decorative and practical.
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 taillights match the front block of lights and the rear fascia is more decorative all around visually linking to Range Rover-like styling. Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024 Collect a few pinecones and set out some glue, small pompoms, glitter, or other decorative items and let the kids unleash their creativity. Elisa Cinelli, Parents, 10 Dec. 2024 The trip proved fruitful: Many of the house’s stunning crystal chandeliers, decorative objets, and Art Deco furniture pieces were Paris finds. Catherine Hong, Architectural Digest, 10 Dec. 2024 Miniature fir trees, Christmas ferns, Christmas cacti and poinsettias in decorative pots make great tabletop or mantel adornments. Jackie Nance-Sons, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for decorative 

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of decorative was in 1791

Dictionary Entries Near decorative

Cite this Entry

“Decorative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decorative. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

decorative

adjective
dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈdek-(ə-)rət-iv How to pronounce decorative (audio)
ˈdek-ə-ˌrāt-
: serving to decorate : ornamental
decoratively adverb
decorativeness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on decorative

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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