English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word plain in English

What does plain mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

plain

US /pleɪn/
UK /pleɪn/
"plain" picture

Adjective

1.

not decorated or elaborate; simple or ordinary in character

Example:
•
She prefers plain clothes without any patterns.
•
The instructions were written in plain language.
Synonym:
simpleunadornedunembellishedundecoratedunornamented
2.

easy to perceive or understand; clear

Example:
•
It was plain to see that he was upset.
•
The answer is plain for anyone to see.
Synonym:
clearobviousevidentapparentmanifest
3.

(of a woman) not beautiful or attractive

Example:
•
She was a rather plain woman, but very kind.
•
Despite her plain appearance, she had a captivating personality.
Synonym:
unattractivehomelyunprepossessingordinaryaverage

Noun

1.

a large area of flat land with few trees

Example:
•
The pioneers crossed the vast plains in their wagons.
•
Wild horses roamed freely across the grassy plains.
Synonym:
flatlandgrasslandprairiesteppetundra

Adverb

1.

in a simple, clear, or straightforward manner

Example:
•
He spoke plainly and directly, leaving no room for misunderstanding.
•
Tell me plainly what you want.
Synonym:
clearlysimplydirectlyfranklycandidly
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Related Word:
plain flourplain clothes