Dísztelen

Dísztelen is a Hungarian adjective meaning without decoration or adornment; unornamented, plain. It is used to describe objects, spaces, or attire that lack decorative features. In architecture, interior design, fashion, and art criticism, dísztelen describes a style or appearance characterized by minimal ornamentation rather than elaborate decoration.

Etymology: the word is formed from the noun dísz ("decoration") and the suffix -telen ("without"), with a linking -t- to satisfy Hungarian phonology, yielding dísztelen.

Usage and nuance: the term can be neutral, indicating a deliberate aesthetic choice—often associated with minimalist or utilitarian design. It can also carry a mildly evaluative nuance if ornament is culturally valued or expected. In everyday language it is common to contrast dísztelen with díszített (decorated).

Examples: dísztelen épület, dísztelen berendezés, dísztelen öltözet. In contemporary discourse, dísztelen design is linked to modernism and minimalism, emphasizing form, function, and material honesty over ornate decoration.

See also: synonyms include egyszerű, puritán; antonyms include díszített, ornamentált, gazdag dekorációjú.