A decorative sword is a sword that is primarily created for ornamental or display purposes rather than functional use. Decorative swords are designed to be visually appealing, featuring elaborate decorations, engravings, or embellishments on the blade, hilt, or scabbard. They are often made with less emphasis on practicality, durability, and functionality compared to swords intended for combat or martial arts.

Decorative swords can come in various styles and designs, inspired by historical, cultural, or fictional themes. They may include replicas of famous swords from history or fantasy, such as medieval European swords, Japanese katana, or swords from movies and literature.

These swords are typically made with lower-grade or non-functional materials, including stainless steel or other alloys, and may not undergo the same heat treatment and construction techniques as functional swords. They are not designed to withstand the stresses of combat or cutting tasks and lack the necessary hardness, edge retention, and overall strength for practical use.

The primary purpose of a decorative sword is for display, collectability, cosplay, theatrical performances, or as an artistic piece. They can be valuable as decorative items or conversation pieces, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of swordmaking traditions. However, it is important to differentiate decorative swords from functional swords intended for practical use and combat applications.