inconspicuous

adjective

in·​con·​spic·​u·​ous ˌin-kən-ˈspi-kyə-wəs How to pronounce inconspicuous (audio)
-kyü-əs
: not readily noticeable
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.
San Diegans and tourists standing on the corner of Second Avenue and Market Street may spot an inconspicuous plaque on the sidewalk commemorating the Douglas Hotel, a former establishment for Black visitors and entertainment during the first half of the 20th century. Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Sep. 2025 Under a tent shrouded in shade cloth at the Desert Botanical Garden, a place known for its showy cactus displays and wildflower blooms, sits a curious collection of inconspicuous plants that could be easily overlooked by the untrained eye. John Leos, AZCentral.com, 26 Sep. 2025 On desktop, consumers are presented with a prominent button to enroll in Prime and a comparatively inconspicuous link to decline, the suit alleged. Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 25 Sep. 2025 For an even more inconspicuous (not to mention space-saving) spice rack, disguise shelves using artwork. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2025 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 4 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

inconspicuous

adjective
in·​con·​spic·​u·​ous ˌin-kən-ˈspik-yə-wəs How to pronounce inconspicuous (audio)
: not easily seen or noticed
inconspicuously adverb
inconspicuousness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on inconspicuous

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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