optional

[op-shuh-nl]

adjective

left to one's choice; not required or mandatory: Formal dress is optional.

leaving something to choice.

Origin of optional

First recorded in 1755–65; option + -al¹

Related formsop·tion·al·i·ty, nounop·tion·al·ly, adverbnon·op·tion·al, adjectivenon·op·tion·al·ly, adverbun·op·tion·al, adjectiveun·op·tion·al·ly, adverb

Synonyms for optional

1. discretional, elective, voluntary.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for optionality

Contemporary Examples of optionality

The future for Model S drivers is all about “optionality” said Musk.
Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk Unveils New Battery Swap System for Model S
William O’Connor
June 22, 2013

British Dictionary definitions for optionality

optional

adjective

possible but not compulsory; left to personal choice

Derived Formsoptionally, adverb

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for optionality

optional

adj.

1765, from option + -al (1).