unobtrusive — not conspicuous or attracting attention; not interfering or intrusive
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: not conspicuous or attracting attention; not interfering or intrusive
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌʌnəbˈtruːsɪv/
Example Sentences
- The waiter was so unobtrusive that we forgot he was there until our food magically appeared.
- She wanted an unobtrusive wedding ring that wouldn't get caught on her rock climbing gear.
- The spy's unobtrusive appearance made him blend in perfectly at the librarians' convention.
unobtrusive
ADJECTIVE[/ˌʌnəbˈtruːsɪv/]
not conspicuous or attracting attention; not interfering or intrusive
The waiter moves unobtrusive between tables, refilling glasses without breaking conversations.
Unobtrusive help stays welcome, intrusive noise gets expelled from exclusive spaces
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin, the word originates from the concept of 'not pushing forward' or 'not thrusting oneself upon others'. It describes something that remains inconspicuous and unassertive, like a presence that quietly observes without demanding attention.
Breakdown
un- (not) + obtrusive (from Latin obtrudere: ob- (toward) + trudere (to thrust/push)), meaning not pushing forward or not intruding upon others' notice.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The waiter was so unobtrusive that we forgot he was there until our food magically appeared.”
“She wanted an unobtrusive wedding ring that wouldn't get caught on her rock climbing gear.”
“The spy's unobtrusive appearance made him blend in perfectly at the librarians' convention.”
“The new security system is unobtrusive and doesn't affect the building's aesthetic.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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