no-frills

American  

[noh-frilz] / ˈnoʊˌfrɪlz /

adjective

1. providing or including basic services and necessities without any additional features or amenities.

   Food and beverages are not covered by the low no-frills airfare.

2. no-name.

3. unadorned; simple; plain; spare.

   a straightforward, no-frills package of healthcare benefits.

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no-frills British  

adjective

1. offering only a basic service in order to keep costs low

   a no-frills airline

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Etymology

Origin of no-frills

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

"We'll celebrate at home, modestly, with no frills," she said.

From Barron's • Dec. 31, 2025

Of course, this dish is very no frills, so be sure you're using a high-quality tomato product.

From Salon • Mar. 12, 2023

"I've certainly never cooked tripe and onions and I never would. But that sort of food has similar qualities to these dishes. It's functional, simple, honest kind of food with no frills."

From BBC • Dec. 28, 2022

But all the attention after the game was on Füllkrug for his no frills morale-boosting goal.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 28, 2022

You're my style, Mr. Blaine—everything done to a nicety, no frills and feathers.

From The Nine-Tenths by Oppenheim, James

Related Words

• elemental
• essential
• key
• main
• necessary
• primary
• primitive
• underlying
• vital