Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

eye candy

American  

noun

  1. Slang.  someone or something that is visually attractive or pleasing but is usually considered to lack worth or merit.


eye candy British  

noun

  1. a person who is or people considered highly attractive to look at, often implying that they are but lacking in intelligence or depth

  2. something intended to be attractive to the eye without being demanding or contributing anything essential

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of eye candy

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The cake’s original version was covered in gold leaf, but aside from eye candy, you’re not missing anything without it.

From The Wall Street Journal

He likens the distinction between CGI and physical craftsmanship to the difference between "eye candy and eye protein", but adds he does use digital effects when absolutely necessary.

From BBC

"Back then, women were just eye candy," he says.

From BBC

The New York Times called it “a stunning, emotional production that ”leads with movement, eye candy and awe.”

From Seattle Times

Though the aurora borealis is harmless eye candy, some of the particles flung at high speed by the sun towards earth can disrupt electronics on earth and in orbit.

From Los Angeles Times