inconspicuous

adjective

in·​con·​spic·​u·​ous ˌin-kən-ˈspi-kyə-wəs How to pronounce inconspicuous (audio)
-kyü-əs
Synonyms of inconspicuous
: not readily noticeable
an inconspicuous brick building
inconspicuously adverb
inconspicuousness noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Stick one panel somewhere inconspicuous and leave it up for a while. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 8 Sep. 2026 As a member of the mint family, horehound has the tendency to spread aggressively, but this can be prevented by shearing the inconspicuous flowers, which is also done to expose the evergreen foliage. Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 6 Sep. 2026 But despite shooting on 35mm, Swanberg continues to pursue a visually inconspicuous style that’s complementarily but counterproductively in line with the performance style. Vadim Rizov, Variety, 2 Sep. 2026 Martynka's shelter, located in an inconspicuous two-bedroom apartment in central Krakow, has hosted more than 100 women and children. ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inconspicuous

Word History

Etymology

Latin inconspicuus, from in- + conspicuus conspicuous

First Known Use

circa 1828, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inconspicuous was circa 1828

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inconspicuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inconspicuous. Accessed 17 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

inconspicuous

adjective
: not easily seen or noticed
inconspicuously adverb
inconspicuousness noun
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