Definition

Not covered with a shiny finish; presented in a straightforward and honest way without any embellishments.

Example

She gave me her unvarnished opinion on the matter, without trying to make it sound better than it was.

Conversation

I really appreciate your unvarnished opinion on things.

Thanks! I think honesty is important in friendship.

Yeah, it's refreshing to hear the unvarnished truth sometimes.

Absolutely! It helps us grow and understand each other better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unvarnished → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "varnish" (from Old French *vernis*, meaning a glossy finish or coating). The word "unvarnished" means not coated with a glossy finish, or in a figurative sense, it can mean plain or straightforward without embellishment.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') covered with a shiny finish ('varnish') — that's why unvarnished means plain or straightforward.

Visually Confused Words