Definition

Adverb: In a manner that serves to decorate or ornament something; for the purpose of adding beauty or aesthetic appeal.

Usage

The adverb "decoratively" describes how an action is performed, specifically when the action is done to make something look more attractive or ornamental. It modifies verbs.

Examples

• The ribbons were tied decoratively around the gift boxes.
• She arranged the flowers decoratively in a large vase on the table.
• Frosting was piped decoratively onto the top of the cake.
• The artist used gold leaf decoratively to highlight parts of the painting.

Advanced Usage

• Used decoratively: This is a common collocation describing the functional purpose of an item, implying its primary role is adornment rather than utility.
  • The antique plates were used decoratively on the wall, not for eating.
  • Pine cones and holly are often used decoratively at Christmas.

Variants and Related Words

• Decorative (adjective): Serving to decorate or ornament; ornamental.
  • The room had many decorative pillows.
• Decoration (noun): The process or art of decorating something; an object used to decorate.
  • The decoration of the hall took all day.
• Decorator (noun): A person who decorates, especially as a profession.

Synonyms

• Ornamentally
• Embellishingly
• Adornedly

Antonyms

• Functionally
• Plainly
• Utilitarianly

Adverb

1. in a decorative manner
   • used decoratively at Christmas