Sans/sænz/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Visual Imagery Use 'sans' to create a strong visual image showing the absence of something typically present. He arrived sans shoes, surprising everyone. Pro Tip 2/3Emphasizing Lack 'Sans' often emphasizes the lack of something in a noticeable or significant way. She played the lead role sans makeup. Pro Tip 3/3French Influence Remember 'sans' is borrowed from French, suggesting a hint of sophistication or literary style. The garden party ambiance was sans pretension.