decoration

noun

dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌde-kə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce decoration (audio)
Synonyms of decorationnext
1
: the act or process of decorating
2
: something that adorns, enriches, or beautifies : ornament
3
: a badge of honor (such as a U.S. military award)

Synonyms of decoration

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Examples of decoration in a Sentence

The vase has a fancy decoration on one side. a plain sweater knit without decoration He's a genius at home decoration. a unique style of decoration He received a decoration from the President.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adorned with retro wooden paneling, flashes of pistachio-green and pink Formica, and architectural murals that reimagine the glass decoration of Milan’s famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele shopping emporium, the space evokes a classic Milanese café. — Amy Bradford, Architectural Digest, 5 Aug. 2026 In the blurry snap, North flashed two peace signs — her mom’s signature pose — in a dark room lit with Christmas decorations around her. — Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 4 Aug. 2026 But, spending a bunch of money on decorations for your son's dorm room, if that's happening, is nuts. — Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 4 Aug. 2026 The experience usually includes kitschy decorations, selfie opportunities, and merchandise for sale. — Fielding Buck, Daily News, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for decoration

Word History

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of decoration was in 1585

Phrases Containing decoration

Rhymes for decoration

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Browse Nearby Words

decorated
decoration
Decoration Day
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Cite this Entry

“Decoration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decoration. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

decoration

noun
dec·​o·​ra·​tion ˌdek-ə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce decoration (audio)
1
: the act or action of decorating
2
: something that decorates or beautifies : ornament
holiday decorations
3
: a badge of honor (as a medal, cross, or ribbon)

More from Merriam-Webster on decoration

Nglish: Translation of decoration for Spanish Speakers

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