inconspicuous

adjective

in·​con·​spic·​u·​ous ˌin-kən-ˈspi-kyə-wəs 

-kyü-əs

: not readily noticeable

inconspicuously adverb

inconspicuousness noun

Synonyms

• discreet
• invisible
• unnoticeable
• unobtrusive

Examples of inconspicuous in a Sentence

She tried to remain as inconspicuous as possible so that no one would see her there.

left an inconspicuous scratch on the wall

Recent Examples on the Web

Just make sure to test the shaving cream on a small, inconspicuous area of the material before applying in larger or more prominent areas. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 16 Mar. 2025

Though inconspicuous—the largest reach only about one millimeter in length—tardigrades are incredibly resilient. —Paulina Rowińska, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Mar. 2025

Dave’s place in the community does not make for a great inconspicuous accomplice, especially as Dave and Nancy’s feelings for each other start to get messy and in the way. —Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 12 Mar. 2025

The extra-long vanity mirror has inconspicuous hooks for handbags, spare keychains, or a few prized hoodies. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin inconspicuus, from in- + conspicuus conspicuous

First Known Use

circa 1828, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

inconspicuous

adjective

in·​con·​spic·​u·​ous ˌin-kən-ˈspik-yə-wəs 

: not easily seen or noticed

inconspicuously adverb

inconspicuousness noun