plain

(plān)

1. Free from obstructions; open; clear: in plain view.
2. Obvious to the mind; evident: make one's intention plain. See Synonyms at apparent.
3. Not elaborate or complicated; simple: plain food.
4. Straightforward; frank or candid: plain talk.
5. Not mixed with other substances; pure: plain water.
6. Common in rank or station; average; ordinary: a plain man.
7. Not pretentious; unaffected.
8. Marked by little or no ornamentation or decoration.
9. Not dyed, twilled, or patterned: a plain fabric.
10. Lacking beauty or distinction: a plain face.
11. Sheer; utter; unqualified: plain stupidity.
12. Archaic Having no visible elevation or depression; flat; level.

1. a. An extensive, level, usually treeless area of land.
   b. A broad level expanse, as a part of the sea floor or a lunar mare.
2. Something free of ornamentation or extraneous matter.

Related Forms:

• plainˈly adverb

• plainˈness noun