Definition of insipidnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word insipid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of insipid are banal, flat, inane, jejune, and vapid. While all these words mean "devoid of qualities that make for spirit and character," insipid implies a lack of sufficient taste or savor to please or interest.

an insipid romance with platitudes on every page

When is banal a more appropriate choice than insipid?

In some situations, the words banal and insipid are roughly equivalent. However, banal stresses the complete absence of freshness, novelty, or immediacy.

a banal tale of unrequited love

When might flat be a better fit than insipid?

The words flat and insipid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flat applies to things that have lost their sparkle or zest.

although well-regarded in its day, the novel now seems flat

In what contexts can inane take the place of insipid?

The meanings of inane and insipid largely overlap; however, inane implies a lack of any significant or convincing quality.

an inane interpretation of the play

Where would jejune be a reasonable alternative to insipid?

Although the words jejune and insipid have much in common, jejune suggests a lack of rewarding or satisfying substance.

a jejune and gassy speech

When can vapid be used instead of insipid?

The words vapid and insipid can be used in similar contexts, but vapid suggests a lack of liveliness, force, or spirit.

an exciting story given a vapid treatment

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of insipid Italy were insipid against the Swiss in that Euros defeat this time last year. James Horncastle, New York Times, 20 June 2025 Amidst their insipid competition to win Harris’ favor, the three daughters lament that none of them will ever truly be their father’s favorite, as that title belongs to the daughter who never grew up: the actual youngest Sinclair daughter, Rosemary. Alyssa Davis, People.com, 19 June 2025 Little Dog asks, an insipid comparison that illuminates only the fungibility of abstract nouns. Andrea Long Chu, Vulture, 6 May 2025 But her second feature, while quite slick, has the insipid feel of a Lifetime movie. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 3 Sep. 2019 See All Example Sentences for insipid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for insipid
Adjective
  • The loft features minimal decor but doesn't feel bland due to the planked walls.
    Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Jan. 2026
  • This is a comforting meal that is anything but bland.
    Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Yes, the rich women went to Sedona on Sutton’s private plane, but before that there were a few scenes back in boring old Los Angeles.
    Brian Moylan, Vulture, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Disease prevention should be boring, routine, expected, and easy to access.
    Uché Blackstock, Time, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Yimobra Memory Foam Bath Mat, $9 with Prime The bath mat is made from memory foam that feels plush underfoot and cushions each step, unlike thin cotton mats.
    Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 10 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Episodes are bound together by banal introductory voiceover, in which our narrator recites ominous clichés that, like everything in His & Hers, border on parody.
    Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 8 Jan. 2026
  • This is a banal statement of law, one that Hegseth himself has made publicly in years past.
    Adam Serwer, The Atlantic, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • What are the wildly popular, controversially tasteless Garbage Pail Kids if not Cabbage Patch Kids from the Upside Down?
    Keith Phipps, Vulture, 27 Nov. 2025
  • Here are details on bites of tofu that are unexpectedly delicious, and the rubbery, tasteless blocks that will send you back to the meat department.
    Jolene Thym, Mercury News, 27 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • No, my mom was the ugliest in her family, the awkward, dull one.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026
  • Sharp knives are substantially safer than dull knives, confirms Bobby Griggs, vice president of Hammer Stahl Cutlery.
    Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 15 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • When Jensen was tiring of running her own business, her little brother did her the same favor of helping her land a job with the cannabis dispensary From The Earth at their Brookside location, where she was quickly hired and loved by her coworkers.
    PJ Green January 7, Kansas City Star, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Although Richardson has only appeared in 25 of the 36 contests so far in his rookie campaign, the near first-half of his first year as a professional has been tiring for the 20-year-old who’s continued to adjust to his new life in Orlando.
    Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Insipid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/insipid. Accessed 18 Jan. 2026.

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