This is the 272nd most frequent Japanese word.
なし
"なし" means "none," "without," or "pear" depending on context.
The word "なし" is used here to indicate "without" something, specifically "without explanation."
彼は説明なしに部屋を出ました。
He left the room without explanation.
Here, "なし" conveys the meaning of proceeding "without any special changes."
この計画には特別な変更なしで進めます。
We will proceed with this plan without any special changes.
In this sentence, "なし" is used to specify that the cake is chosen "without fruit."