inconspicuous

adjective

in·​con·​spic·​u·​ous ˌin-kən-ˈspi-kyə-wəs 

-kyü-əs

: not readily noticeable

an inconspicuous brick building

inconspicuously adverb

inconspicuousness noun

Synonyms of inconspicuous

• discreet
• invisible
• unnoticed

Examples of inconspicuous in a Sentence

She tried to remain as inconspicuous as possible so that no one would see her there.

left an inconspicuous scratch on the wall

Recent Examples on the Web

Always spot test in an inconspicuous area before tackling a larger surface, and avoid using detergent on delicate natural stone, hardwood, unfinished wood and glass. —Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 May 2026

Use them sparingly and test in an inconspicuous spot first. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 11 May 2026

If your glass doors have a special coating that repels stains, test cleaners in an inconspicuous place first and check with the manufacturer for cleaning instructions. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 5 May 2026

On an invitation from McGuire last weekend, Heath returned to Allianz for the first time but was inconspicuous to most while observing the Los Angeles FC match from the suite level. —Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 1 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin inconspicuus, from in- + conspicuus conspicuous

First Known Use

circa 1828, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

inconspicuous

adjective

in·​con·​spic·​u·​ous ˌin-kən-ˈspik-yə-wəs 

: not easily seen or noticed

inconspicuously adverb

inconspicuousness noun