optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl 

: involving an option : not compulsory

optionality

ˌäp-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

optionally adverb

Synonyms

• discretionary
• elective
• voluntary

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

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

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

: left to one's choice : not required

optional equipment on a new car

optionally

-ē

adverb