# brutalist

/ˈbɹutəlɪst/ (US) · /bɹˈuːtəlˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brutalist
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

describing a style of building from the 1950s to the 1970s that uses a lot of plain, grey concrete. These buildings often look heavy, blocky, and very simple.

For teachers: relating to a style of architecture emerging in the mid-20th century, characterised by the use of raw, unadorned concrete and massive, geometric forms. Often used to describe functionalist urban structures.

## Examples

- The university library is a famous brutalist building.
- Many people find the brutalist apartment blocks in the city center to be cold and intimidating.
- While critics once dismissed brutalist structures as eyesores, a new generation of architects is fighting to preserve these concrete landmarks for their honest expression of material.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'architecture', 'building', or 'concrete'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.