English · Word Candidate

decorative

/ˈdɛk.ə.ɹə.tɪv/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: decoratives

Sense 1

Meaning · English

That serves to decorate

Adjective

Decorative embellishments give the home an elegant touch.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

That has no functional purpose.

Adjective

The phone on the film set doesn't work, it's purely decorative.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

A plant, tile, etc. intended for use as decoration.

Noun

Analysts said the company’s results were in line, but noted that organic growth at the decoratives business was slightly weaker than expected.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “decorative” mean?

That serves to decorate

Is “decorative” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.