What does ornamental mean?
Ornamental describes something that is valued chiefly for its decorative or visual effect rather than for practical use. An ornamental railing, sculpture, or fountain may contribute to the appearance of a building or landscape without serving a necessary function. The word can carry a mildly critical implication that something is beautiful but superfluous, although this depends on context. In gardening and horticulture, ornamental plants are grown for their flowers, foliage, or overall appearance instead of for food, materials, or commercial products. For example, ornamental grasses are selected for the texture and movement they add to a garden. Ornamental contrasts with functional or practical: the former emphasizes appearance and display, while the latter emphasizes usefulness. The word is common in both British and American English and is particularly familiar through the established phrase “ornamental plants.”
adjectiveExisting or used primarily for decorative effect rather than practical purpose. It may also describe plants grown chiefly for their appearance.
- Serving primarily as decoration rather than for practical use.
- Cultivated chiefly for visual appeal rather than for food, timber, or another useful product.
"An ornamental screen concealed the doorway while adding a touch of elegance to the room."
"The garden is filled with ornamental grasses that sway gracefully in the breeze."
"Although the mechanism was decorative, it had been made with remarkable precision."
An ornamental object is chosen for what it contributes to the eye, even when it contributes little to everyday life.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ornamental come from?
The adjective derives from the Late Latin word ornamentalis, meaning “of or resembling an ornament.” That form developed from Latin ornare, “to adorn or equip,” which also underlies English words such as ornate, ornament, and adorn. English borrowed the Latin-derived vocabulary during the Renaissance, when the language drew extensively on classical Latin for new descriptive and ornamental terms.
Related word forms
How ornamental is actually used
The term can imply that something is attractive but unnecessary or lacking a practical function. In horticulture, it distinguishes plants valued for appearance from those cultivated for practical or productive purposes.
Easily confused with ornamental
Ornamental describes something that serves a chiefly decorative purpose, whereas ornate characterizes something richly and elaborately decorated.