What does ornamentally mean?
Ornamentally is an adverb describing an action performed in a decorative manner. It indicates that beauty, embellishment, or visual appeal is a deliberate feature of what is being done rather than an incidental result. For example, flowers may be arranged ornamentally above a doorway, or metalwork may be incorporated ornamentally into a piece of furniture. The word is especially appropriate in descriptions of architecture, art, design, clothing, and ceremonial display. Although “decoratively” can convey a similar idea, “ornamentally” often sounds somewhat more formal and gives stronger emphasis to the deliberate decorative function of an object or action. Its uncommon status does not make it incorrect; rather, it suits contexts in which precision and a formal descriptive register are desirable.
adverbIn a decorative or ornamental manner; with a view to beautifying or embellishing something.
- In a decorative manner, with emphasis on ornamentation or embellishment.
"The sculptor placed the stonework ornamentally along the upper edge of the arch."
"The ironwork is both structural and ornamentally expressive."
"He wore the sash ornamentally over one shoulder."
Ornamentally marks the moment when decoration becomes a deliberate manner or purpose, rather than simply describing a decorated object.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ornamentally come from?
“Ornamentally” was formed by adding the adverbial suffix “-ly” to “ornamental.” “Ornamental” in turn comes from “ornament,” a word borrowed from Latin through Old French. The Latin “ornamentum” referred to equipment, decoration, or embellishment, and is related to “ornare,” meaning to adorn or equip.
Related word forms
How ornamentally is actually used
A relatively formal word, used when describing the manner in which something is arranged or displayed for decorative effect. It is less common than the adjective “ornamental” in everyday speech.