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

With a breezy writing style that means her books are found on bedside tables as often as kitchen worktops, Roman turned a generation into voracious eaters and cooks with her viral cookie recipes, quick tips, and unpretentious, garlicky dishes. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 11 Nov. 2025

Factor in the overall vibe of the resort—old-school and refreshingly unpretentious—and the test was one for the books. —Drew Zieff, Outside, 7 Nov. 2025

Handmade pastas, local seafood, and seasonal Mediterranean-leaning dishes pair with a smart wine list and warm, unpretentious service. —Alli Forde, Travel + Leisure, 6 Nov. 2025

The couple kept the festivities unpretentious and focused on love, family and the beauty of their surroundings. —Sean Mandell, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2025

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