decal

noun

de·​cal ˈdē-ˌkal How to pronounce decal (audio) di-ˈkal How to pronounce decal (audio)
Canadian usually
ˈde-kəl How to pronounce decal (audio)
Synonyms of decal
: a picture, design, or label made to be transferred (as to glass) from specially prepared paper

Examples of decal 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.
The Dodgers added Kalshi branding to their digital outfield signage rotation earlier this month and then put a Kalshi decal behind home plate Friday and Sunday. — Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 24 Aug. 2026 That thinking led to lesser designs such as a misguided remake of Paradise Pier into Pixar Pier at California Adventure, in which Pixar characters are basically treated as decals. — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2026 In addition to standard lettering, Kassatex has a menu of fun embroidery decals that can sit alongside monograms, including a lighthouse motif, delicate bow designs, and even a martini glass to turn tub time into a party. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 10 Aug. 2026 For a kitchen, consider painting the lid or adding a decorative decal before mounting it. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for decal

Word History

Etymology

short for decalcomania

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of decal was in 1937

Rhymes for decal

See All Rhymes for decal

Browse Nearby Words

Decaisnea
decal
decalage
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Decal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decal. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

decal

noun
de·​cal ˈdē-ˌkal How to pronounce decal (audio) di-ˈkal How to pronounce decal (audio)
ˈdek-əl
: a picture, design, or label made to be transferred (as to glass) from specially prepared paper
Etymology

a shortened form of earlier decalcomania "the art of transferring pictures," from French décalcomanie (same meaning), from décalquer "to copy by tracing" and manie "mania, craze"

More from Merriam-Webster on decal

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for decal

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about decal

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