UTILITARIAN Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

utilitarian

adjective

Definition of utilitarian

as in useful

capable of being put to use or account She found his theories utilitarian in constructing her own. of, relating to, or being a method of computer programming in which each step of the solution to a problem is contained in a separate subprogram

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of utilitarian If your peak-summer wardrobe needs a refresh, Alexa Chung makes a case for utilitarian Bermuda shorts as the ultimate power piece. — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 31 July 2026 Paying attention to these details makes displaying the cutting boards on the open shelves look like an intentional styling decision instead of a purely utilitarian one. — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 July 2026 Traditional Papuan stone axes were more than utilitarian tools. — ABC News, 23 July 2026 Traditional Papuan stone axes, said the minister, were much more than utilitarian objects. — Anne Doran, ARTnews.com, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for utilitarian

Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilitarian

Adjective

Toilet seats designed for American Standard models can also have some useful features, such as a slow-close function that protects the bowl from damage.

— BestReviews, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2026
His shoot-first mindset adds a useful dimension to Tottenham’s attack, particularly when lining up alongside Dominic Solanke, a natural facilitator, and Kudus, who was Tottenham’s primary creative outlet in the frontline before his injury.

— Elias Burke, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of useful

Adjective

Determine whether the signal represents ordinary variation, beneficial adaptation, or emerging deterioration.

— Gerald J. Leonard, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026
Both receptors are common on human airway cells High levels of stimulation are detrimental, the researchers wrote, whereas moderate levels indicating small amounts of time spent in cowsheds seemed to be beneficial.

— Baltimore Sun, Boston Herald, 9 Aug. 2026

Definition of beneficial

Browse Nearby Words

utensils

utilitarian

utility

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“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilitarian. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of utilitarian

adjective

Example Sentences

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