unobtrusive

adjective

un·​ob·​tru·​sive ˌən-əb-ˈtrü-siv How to pronounce unobtrusive (audio)
-ziv
: not obtrusive : not blatant, arresting, or aggressive : inconspicuous
unobtrusively adverb
unobtrusiveness noun

Examples of unobtrusive in a Sentence

the notice that an 18% tip would be automatically added was so unobtrusive we almost didn't see it at the bottom of the menu
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.
Guests enter unobtrusive double doors from the street and walk past a long hallway, passing a wine wall and an attractive counter display of fresh vegetables and fish that appear to have just been caught. Irene S. Levine, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025 Every scene and gag plays out in noncommittal fashion, with an unmoving, unobtrusive camera capturing stilted compositions. Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 26 June 2025 The aesthetic leans toward modern and unobtrusive, fitting neatly into a professional desktop setup without drawing attention. PC Magazine, 11 June 2025 Duluth, Minnesota, has installed effective and unobtrusive signs at each beach entrance next to a garbage receptacle. John Michael Pierobon, Sun Sentinel, 25 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for unobtrusive

Word History

First Known Use

1743, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unobtrusive was in 1743

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unobtrusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unobtrusive. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

unobtrusive

adjective
un·​ob·​tru·​sive ˌən-əb-ˈtrü-siv How to pronounce unobtrusive (audio)
-ziv
: not obtrusive or bold : inconspicuous
unobtrusively adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on unobtrusive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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