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 of unpretentious

• genuine
• unaffected
• honest
• simple
• true
• innocent

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

With its winning trifecta of sandy beaches, boutique hotels, and unpretentious tavernas, the Greek island of Milos seduces couples, water lovers, and gastronomes alike. — Helen Iatrou, Travel + Leisure, 11 July 2026

Haaland opts for unpretentious social media output, too, through Snapchat and Instagram. — Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 10 July 2026

The menu is rooted in familiar, unpretentious dishes that are vegetable-forward but not strictly vegetarian. — Gabriella Angeleti, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 July 2026

This intimate bar strikes a balance between intentional cocktails and an unpretentious vibe. — Blair Crosby, AJC.com, 5 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unpretentious

• conscientious
• contentious
• pretentious
• sententious
• tendentious

Kids Definition

unpretentious

adjective

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

: not pretentious : not showy : simple, modest

pleasant but unpretentious homes

unpretentiously adverb