unwrinkled

Unwrinkled is an adjective describing the absence of wrinkles or creases on a surface. It denotes a condition that is smooth, flat, and neatly finished, free from folds that disrupt uniformity. The term is commonly applied to textiles, paper, skin, and other materials where a wrinkle-free appearance is desirable.

Etymology and usage: The word is formed by adding the negating prefix un- to wrinkled; the root wrinkled derives from Old English and other Germanic sources. In everyday use, unwrinkled contrasts with wrinkled or creased, and it can describe both permanent characteristics, such as a finished surface, and temporary conditions, such as clothes that have been ironed.

Applications: In textiles and apparel, unwrinkled fabrics are smooth and free of creases either naturally or through finishing, pressing, or no-iron treatments. In stationery and packaging, unwrinkled paper or foil indicates a crisp, flat surface. In biology or cosmetics, unwrinkled skin can describe a smooth complexion, but care must be taken to use non-medical, neutral language.

Related terms include wrinkle-free, smooth, and uncreased; antonyms are wrinkled and creased. The term is largely descriptive and context-dependent, with objective standards varying by material and industry.