humdrum

adjective

hum·​drum ˈhəm-ˌdrəm 

: monotonous, dull

humdrum noun

Synonyms

• arid
• boring
• colorless
• drab
• dreary
• drudging
• dry
• dull
• dusty
• flat
• heavy
• ho-hum
• jading
• jejune
• leaden
• mind-numbing
• monochromatic
• monotonous
• numbing
• old
• pedestrian
• ponderous
• slow
• stale
• stodgy
• stuffy
• stupid
• tame
• tedious
• tiresome
• tiring
• uninteresting
• wearisome
• weary
• wearying

Examples of humdrum in a Sentence

She liked the movie, but I thought it was humdrum.

another humdrum day at the office

Recent Examples on the Web

However, what grounds the film is the palpable chemistry between Chao and Mackie, who bring a delightful rhythm to their character's humdrum routines. —James Mercadante, Ilana Gordon, Stephanie Kaloi, EW.com, 25 July 2024

But some of this humdrum new work received a boost in live form. —Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY, 4 July 2024

With wood paneling, a normal amount of clutter, and a humble stained glass panel in the window, the couple’s house provides a humdrum backdrop that foils the disturbing events that take place inside. —Rachel Davies, Architectural Digest, 3 July 2024

Make a point of imbuing your day-to-day humdrum routine with sprinkles of whimsy and fun. —Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

reduplication of hum

First Known Use

1553, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

humdrum

adjective

hum·​drum ˈhəm-ˌdrəm 

: monotonous sense 2, dull