utilitarian

1 of 2

noun

util·​i·​tar·​i·​an (ˌ)yü-ˌti-lə-ˈter-ē-ən 

: an advocate or adherent of utilitarianism

utilitarian

2 of 2

adjective

1

: of or relating to or advocating utilitarianism

2

: marked by utilitarian views or practices

3

a

: of, relating to, or aiming at utility

b

: exhibiting or preferring mere utility

spare utilitarian furnishings

Examples of utilitarian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Aaron Young’s weathered tire swing dangling from a 24-karat gold chain; Rich Aybar’s cocooning, low-slung rubber chair; and Mr. Liz Hopkins’ otherworldly fiberglass and resin lamp, for example, elevate the utilitarian through memory and wonder. —Alia Akkam, Architectural Digest, 15 July 2024

From there Kate adds in details and decor elements that might seem over the top from the standard utilitarian set up. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 4 Apr. 2024

Adjective

While most Italian luxury brands were focused on tailoring, Stone Island introduced utilitarian elements inspired by military designs—a fusion of form and function that not only looked stylish but also performed under harsh conditions. —Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 18 Sep. 2024

Ninety-nine out of 100 elevators are utilitarian things entombed inside walls so no one has to see their ugly guts. —Adam Erace, Travel + Leisure, 17 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1780, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

utilitarian

adjective

util·​i·​tar·​i·​an

(ˌ)yü-ˌtil-ə-ˈter-ē-ən

1

: of or relating to utility

2

: aiming at usefulness rather than beauty

utilitarian furniture