optional

adjective

op·​tion·​al ˈäp-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce optional (audio)
Synonyms of optionalnext
: involving an option : not compulsory
optionality
ˌäp-shə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce optional (audio)
noun
optionally adverb

Synonyms of optional

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Examples of optional in a Sentence

Jackets are required at the restaurant, but ties are optional. Many optional features are available on this car. Registration is optional, not mandatory.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This is just to give a little life to the palate, and is honestly optional. — Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 27 June 2026 Snacks or wine are optional, but the night should still feel enjoyable, not just productive. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 26 June 2026 But that works against backward compatibility, so the hope would be at least an optional disc drive will still be sold. — Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Finding a disliked celebrity with the offending crossed legs is optional. — Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for optional

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optional was in 1765

Browse Nearby Words

option
optional
optionalize
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Cite this Entry

“Optional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optional. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

optional

adjective
op·​tion·​al ˈäp-shnəl How to pronounce optional (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
: left to one's choice : not required
optional equipment on a new car
optionally
-ē
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on optional

Nglish: Translation of optional for Spanish Speakers

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