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

In fact, they embody a maximalist trend in cake decoration that inspired one writer at the Cut to write a cranky takedown last July titled “Enough With the Ugly Cakes.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Across India's cities and towns, markets bustle with shoppers buying sweets, gifts, decorations, and firecrackers, giving a significant boost to the economy each year.

Read more on BBC

During her time on the estate, she has also volunteered for the opera festival that takes place on the estate every year, and makes decorations for local events including VE Day celebrations.

Read more on BBC

Tariffs have also had an impact on Halloween costs — most notably for decorations and costumes.

Read more on MarketWatch

Sèvres porcelain traditionally exists in spirited tension between sculpture and decoration, functional object and art.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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