UTILITARIAN Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

utilitarian

adjective

Definition of utilitarian

as in useful

capable of being put to use or account She found his theories utilitarian in constructing her own. of, relating to, or being a method of computer programming in which each step of the solution to a problem is contained in a separate subprogram

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of utilitarian Best Fall Boot Trends Worth Shopping in 2026 At Hermès, Proenza Schouler, and Tory Burch, riding boots returned with a utilitarian sensibility, favoring structured leather, streamlined shafts, and minimal hardware over anything too precious. — Camila Quimper, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026 The company has quietly transformed from a single-product utilitarian clog maker into a global footwear powerhouse. — Justin Zacks, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2026 The enclosure feels rigid with tight panel gaps and a clean industrial design that avoids looking overly rugged or utilitarian. — Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 9 Oct. 2026 This utilitarian, high-neck pocket jacket immediately caught my attention. — Essence Wiley, InStyle, 4 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for utilitarian

Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilitarian

Adjective

The technology could be particularly useful in situations where drones operate frequently or perform missions with limited time for detailed manual checks.

— Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 26 Oct. 2026
Every patient requires tumor analysis, target selection, manufacturing, and quality testing, all within a clinically useful timeframe.

— Mike McRae October 25, New Atlas, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of useful

Adjective

More broadly, the decoupling could be beneficial for the Nasdaq-100, with Apple potentially serving as a safety trade amid growing AI volatility.

— Fred Imbert, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2026
And the controversy, the Collins insider says, may turn out to be perversely beneficial.

— Chris Smith, Vanity Fair, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of beneficial

Browse Nearby Words

utensils

utilitarian

utility

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“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilitarian. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of utilitarian

adjective

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