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plain


3plain

adj

Definition of PLAIN

1
archaic : even, level
2
: lacking ornament : undecorated
3
: free of extraneous matter : pure
4
: free of impediments to view : unobstructed
5
a (1) : evident to the mind or senses : obvious <it's perfectly plain that they will resist> (2) : clear <let me make my meaning plain> b : marked by outspoken candor : free from duplicity or subtlety : blunt <plain talk>
6
a : belonging to the masses : common b : lacking special distinction or affectation : ordinary
7
: characterized by simplicity : not complicated <plain home-cooked meals>
8
: lacking beauty or ugliness
plain·ly adverb
plain·ness \ˈplān-nəs\ noun

Examples of PLAIN

  1. It was a plain room with no curtains.
  2. She was wearing plain black shoes.
  3. He printed the picture on plain paper.
  4. a piece of plain chicken
  5. You don't have to call me Mr. Johnson—just plain Fred will be fine.
  6. What he said is a lie, plain and simple.

First Known Use of PLAIN

14th century

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