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unpretentious

adjective

un·​pre·​ten·​tious ˌən-pri-ˈten(t)-shəs How to pronounce unpretentious (audio)
Synonyms of unpretentiousnext
: free from ostentation, elegance, or affectation : modest
unpretentious homes
an unpretentious celebrity
unpretentiously adverb
unpretentiousness noun

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
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.
Situated on the northern coast of São Paulo, this super-relaxed, unpretentious town is home to more than 100 beaches, arguably some of the most beautiful in all of Brazil. Jade Moyano, Travel + Leisure, 30 Nov. 2025 It’s known for its relaxed, unpretentious vibe and approachable terrain that caters to everyone from first-timers to experts. Francesca Krempa, StyleCaster, 17 Nov. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for unpretentious

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unpretentious was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Unpretentious.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unpretentious. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

unpretentious

adjective
un·​pre·​ten·​tious ˌən-pri-ˈten-chəs How to pronounce unpretentious (audio)
: not pretentious : not showy : simple, modest
pleasant but unpretentious homes
unpretentiously adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on unpretentious

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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