decoration

[dek-uh-rey-shuhn]

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.

decoration

/ 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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of decoration¹

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

Example Sentences

Nutcracker Soldier dolls are a traditional German Christmas decoration dating back to the 17th Century.

Read more on BBC

To afford gifts, they are planning to cut back on decorations, new outfits, and dining out.

Read more on Barron's

To afford gifts, they are planning to cut back on decorations, new outfits, and dining out.

Read more on Barron's

There are fights over dishes and doll collections, jewelry and paper holiday decorations.

Read more on MarketWatch

"Once again, I call on federal agents to target violent criminals, not neighbors walking down the street, going to church, or putting up Christmas decorations," he wrote.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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