ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ornamental

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɔɹnəˈmɛntəɫ// UK //ˌɔːnəmˈɛntəl// or·na·men·tal

adj. used as a decoration to make something look more attractive. It is usually not meant to be useful or practical.

adj. serving as a decorative element rather than a functional one. Often used to describe plants, objects, or architectural features intended solely for aesthetic appeal.


SIMPLE

The garden is full of ornamental plants.

CONTEXTUAL

While the fireplace is purely ornamental and cannot be used for heating, it serves as a beautiful focal point for the living room.

COMPLEX

The gate featured intricate ornamental ironwork that reflected the Victorian era's preference for elaborate decoration over minimalist utility.

Synonyms
Origin

From ornament + -al.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun; often contrasted with 'functional' or 'utilitarian'.

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