decoration

American  

[dek-uh-rey-shuhn] / ˌdɛk əˈreɪ ʃən /

noun

1. something used for decorating; adornment; embellishment.

   The gymnasium was adorned with posters and crepe-paper decorations for the dance.

2. the act of decorating.

3. interior decoration.

4. a badge, medal, etc., conferred and worn as a mark of honor.

   a decoration for bravery.

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decoration British  

/ ˌdɛkəˈreɪʃən /

noun

1. an addition that renders something more attractive or ornate; adornment

2. the act, process, or art of decorating

3. a medal, badge, etc, conferred as a mark of honour

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Other Word Forms

• nondecoration noun
• overdecoration noun
• redecoration noun
• superdecoration noun

Etymology

Origin of decoration

First recorded in 1575–85; from Late Latin decorātiōn- (stem of decorātiō ) “an ornament”; decorate, -ion

Example Sentences

In reality, my dad’s will was in a cardboard box next to the Christmas decorations.

From Salon

I took in the decorations: carved wooden lanterns and heavy painted scrolls hanging from the arbor terrace, screens with images of birds of paradise and other floral designs placed around the tables.

From Literature

The holiday serenades, decorations dating back to the 1930s and a Christmas tree with more than 14,000 lights are part of the draw.

From Salon

Coady, who was posthumously promoted from specialist, had awards and decorations including the Army Service Ribbon, the National Defense Service Ribbon, and the Overseas Service Ribbon, the military said.

From The Wall Street Journal

There weren’t any family photos up yet, no artwork or decorations beyond a few rugs and new curtains.

From Literature

Related Words

• color
• design
• finery
• ornament
• plaque
• ribbon
• trinket
• wreath