Search Dictionary
Definition of unobtrusive

unobtrusive

/ˌʌn.əbˈtruː.sɪv/
un · ob · tru · sive
Adverb:unobtrusively
JUMP TO:

unobtrusive Lexical Profile

unobtrusive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Not conspicuous, prominent, or attracting undue attention; blending in quietly with the surroundings.

Example

"The museum installed unobtrusive security cameras that did not distract visitors from the historic paintings."

2

Having or showing a modest, reserved manner that does not impose upon others.

Example

"The waiter provided attentive yet unobtrusive service throughout the formal dinner."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for unobtrusive
Antonyms
View all antonyms for unobtrusive

• Rhymes for unobtrusive

• Nearby Words

unobserved
unobstructed
unobtainable
unobtrusive
unobtrusively
unobvious
unoccupied

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 18th century by attaching the privative prefix 'un-' to 'obtrusive', which derives from the Latin verb 'obtrudere' (meaning 'to thrust against' or 'to force upon'), from 'ob-' (against) and 'trudere' (to push or thrust).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Unobtrusive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/unobtrusive
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.