Unostentatiously

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. Characterized by a modest or low-key manner, exhibiting simplicity without seeking to attract attention or show off wealth
2. Demonstrating a lack of ostentation while maintaining a sense of subtlety and grace
3. Expressing qualities that are understated and unpretentious, often resulting in a quietly elegant presence

Etymology: "Unostentatiously" is simply "unostentatious" with the adverbial "-ly" added, and the two parts carry the whole story. "Ostentatious" comes from the Latin "ostentare," meaning to display or show off repeatedly, a verb built from "ostendere," to present to view. The "un-" prefix reverses it, so the adjective describes someone who does not put themselves or their possessions on show. The adverb follows the same pattern: it describes an action carried out without any display. Someone who arrives quietly, gives generously without announcing it, or dresses with restraint acts unostentatiously. The word is a formal, slightly elaborate form, so it tends to appear in writing rather than everyday speech.

Synonyms: modestly, unpretentiously