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 Dragon’s Cloud The dragon in this energetic narrative is carved out of gold over a background made using a rare technique called damascening, a form of decorative inlay using metals of contrasting colors, resulting in a layered appearance meant to resemble the organic textures found in nature. Carol Besler, Robb Report, 12 Mar. 2024 The set comes with two decorative glass bowls and a matching top to display your favorite sweet treats this Easter. Gabriella Maestri, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2024 During Caribbean carnival season, decorative swimwear, in particular, is always in rotation. Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 11 Mar. 2024 Hermosa Outdoor Decorative Throw Pillow $15 If your outdoor space is more contemporary than whimsical, the Hermosa outdoor decorative throw pillow is likely the best bet for your a more classic and modern aesthetic. Christianna Silva, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2024 Pink prevails in chairs, booths, plates, decorative flowers that line the patio archway and even some of the dishes. The Arizona Republic, 6 Mar. 2024 The toughness of leathers is reproduced in delicate oxidised suits to create garments that echo the decorative butchness of the source material, while inflecting them with tenderness. Luke Leitch, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2024 Green Wolf Lighting, founded by Rebecca Marks, specializes in the production of decorative, cordless lamps handblown in Venice by Murano artisans. Anthony Demarco, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2024 One centerpiece, the decorative multi-part organ screen that is in the Huntington’s collection, has been reunited with other components for the first time in more than four decades. Christopher Knight, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'decorative.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 18 Mar. 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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