What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ornament
Example
The Christmas tree was adorned with beautiful ornaments. [ornaments: noun]
Example
She wore a gold necklace with a small ornament hanging from it. [ornament: noun]
decoration
Example
She spent hours decorating the cake with frosting and sprinkles. [decorating: verb]
Example
The living room was filled with colorful decorations for the party. [decorations: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decoration is more commonly used than ornament in everyday language. Decoration is a versatile term that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while ornament is more specific and often associated with high-end design or luxury.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ornament and decoration?
Ornament is typically associated with a more formal tone, while decoration can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
