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

Until now, the global art scene hadn’t quite made its way to the unpretentious seaside town, but Biarritz is conveniently flanked by major art hubs with Paris, Madrid, and Bilbao all within a short driving distance. —Monica Mendal, Vogue, 24 Apr. 2026

The atmosphere is regal and luxurious, yet settling and unpretentious. —Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 24 Apr. 2026

And the restaurant’s unpretentious approach to French food is very much in line with Wise’s personality. —Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026

But while the vibe might lean art-gallery cool, the à la carte menu is refreshingly unpretentious. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 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