decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈde-k(ə-)rə-tiv 

ˈde-kə-ˌrā-

: serving to decorate

especially : purely ornamental

decoratively adverb

decorativeness noun

Synonyms

• adorning
• beautifying
• cosmetic
• embellishing
• ornamental

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

This non-toxic soy candle burns for up to 45 hours and comes with a decorative lid for snuffing out the flame, too. —Christina Shepherd McGuire, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Nov. 2024

In addition to holding the record for skinniest skyscraper, the building is also the second tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere, reaching a whopping 1,428 feet high, including a 300-foot decorative steel crown. —Jessica Cherner, Architectural Digest, 5 Nov. 2024

Also featured in the post is a photo of a decorative cobweb and spider. —Kaitlyn Schwanemann, NBC News, 1 Nov. 2024

But these decorative dressings aren’t just for show. —Maggie Gillette, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1791, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing decorative

• decorative art

Kids Definition

decorative

adjective

dec·​o·​ra·​tive ˈdek-(ə-)rət-iv 

ˈdek-ə-ˌrāt-

: serving to decorate : ornamental

decoratively adverb

decorativeness noun