unpretentious

adjective

un·​pre·​ten·​tious ˌən-pri-ˈten(t)-shəs 

: free from ostentation, elegance, or affectation : modest

unpretentious homes

an unpretentious celebrity

unpretentiously adverb

unpretentiousness noun

Synonyms

• artless
• genuine
• guileless
• honest
• ingenuous
• innocent
• naive
• naïve
• natural
• real
• simple
• sincere
• true
• unaffected
• unpretending

Examples of unpretentious in a Sentence

a casual and unpretentious restaurant

a simple and unpretentious account about growing up in the rural South

Recent Examples on the Web

Kahane’s manner is, like his music, unpretentious, though shot through with dark humor and whimsy. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2024

The gentle, unpretentious vibe and top-notch service plays well with locals, so be prepared to order in Italian. —Carrie Dennis, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2024

The aesthetic is both elegant and surprising, simple and unpretentious, like the sculptures and vases by Japanese artist Toru Kurokawa (right), or the tables and armchairs from the Karimoku brand. —Anna-Lena Reith, Architectural Digest, 13 Oct. 2024

Kurama Sushi is an authentic Japanese restaurant with exceptionally good sushi served in a friendly, unpretentious setting. 7. —Jayme Moye, Outside Online, 4 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

unpretentious

adjective

un·​pre·​ten·​tious ˌən-pri-ˈten-chəs 

: not pretentious : not showy : simple, modest

pleasant but unpretentious homes

unpretentiously adverb