utilitarian

1 of 2

noun

util·​i·​tar·​i·​an (ˌ)yü-ˌti-lə-ˈter-ē-ən How to pronounce utilitarian (audio)
Synonyms of utilitariannext
: an advocate or adherent of utilitarianism

utilitarian

2 of 2

adjective

1
: of or relating to or advocating utilitarianism
2
: marked by utilitarian views or practices
3
a
: of, relating to, or aiming at utility
b
: exhibiting or preferring mere utility
spare utilitarian furnishings

Examples of utilitarian in a Sentence

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.
Noun
The overall impact leaves even a coffee utilitarian like me giddy. Editors Of Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 Oct. 2025 Lighting should go beyond the utilitarian and make a statement with its style and scale. Amy Panos, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 June 2025
Adjective
Instead, opt for an anorak with a utilitarian feel (which will keep you warm on cold days) and plenty of pockets to hold smaller items like tissues, headphones, hand sanitizer, and lip gloss. Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 20 Dec. 2025 The ultimate topper—the winter hat—has the power to transform an outfit entirely, and right now, several beloved brands are paying extra attention to this once-utilitarian accessory. Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 19 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for utilitarian

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1781, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of utilitarian was in 1781

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Utilitarian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/utilitarian. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

utilitarian

adjective
util·​i·​tar·​i·​an
(ˌ)yü-ˌtil-ə-ˈter-ē-ən
1
: of or relating to utility
2
: aiming at usefulness rather than beauty
utilitarian furniture

More from Merriam-Webster on utilitarian

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!