WordGarden.iounpainted
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnpˈeɪntɪd/
US
- /ənˈpeɪntɪd/
Meanings
Adjective
not painted or covered with paint
Beyond the definition
Imagine a wooden fence, fresh from the lumberyard. That's what this word usually describes. It means something has no paint on it, so the original surface is still showing. We use it most often for things like wood, walls, furniture, or buildings that have been left in a plain, unfinished state. Sometimes that feels rough or incomplete, and sometimes it feels simple and natural.
The word "unpainted" describes something that does not have paint on it and still shows its original surface. You might use it for an unpainted wooden chair, an unpainted wall, or an unpainted shed. In these cases, the material underneath is easy to see, whether that is wood, metal, plaster, or something else. The word often suggests that the object is plain, unfinished, or still waiting for a final layer.
Most of the time, this word is used in a literal way, not a strongly figurative one. It is common when talking about furniture, houses, fences, doors, rooms, and other physical things. Depending on the context, it can sound practical and neutral, or it can suggest a certain look: simple, honest, rough, or natural. An unpainted surface may be left that way on purpose to show the texture and color of the material.
The nuance of the word comes from what paint usually does. Paint can protect, decorate, or cover a surface, so when something is unpainted, it may seem more exposed or less finished. Still, that is not always a bad thing. In many cases, the word simply points to a clean, natural state before any paint has been added.
Examples
- 1
Home improvement
We decided to leave the door unpainted until we chose a color.
- Patternleave X unpainted
choose not to paint it
- 2
Weathered wood
The cabin's unpainted wood had turned gray after years in the sun.
- 3
Children's toys
Many parents prefer unpainted toys for small children.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unpaintedadjective