Unvarnished

Unvarnished refers to something that is plain, straightforward, and without any embellishment, ornamentation, or artificial covering. It can describe a physical surface, meaning it lacks a protective or decorative coating like varnish. More commonly, 'unvarnished' describes information, opinions, or accounts presented in a brutally honest, direct, and frank manner, without any attempt to soften or sugarcoat the reality. It implies a lack of artifice and a commitment to truthful, albeit possibly harsh, disclosure.

Unvarnished meaning with examples

• The antique chair, though showing its age, had a certain rustic charm due to its unvarnished wood and original craftsmanship, its raw texture telling a story.
• He provided an unvarnished account of the company's failures, admitting their missteps and holding no punches back, leaving no room for misinterpretation.
• The artist prefers the unvarnished truth in her paintings, refusing to idealize subjects and instead capturing the grit and imperfections of the human condition.
• After years of political spin, the public yearned for an unvarnished leader who would speak directly to their concerns, avoiding vague promises.