ho-hum

1 of 2

adjective

ˈhō-ˈhəm

Synonyms of ho-hum next

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1

: routine, dull

a ho-hum existence

2

: bored, indifferent

a ho-hum reaction

ho hum

2 of 2

interjection

ˈhō-ˈhəm

—used to express weariness, boredom, or disdain

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Christina Fragkou What might look ho-hum is actually quite subversive—and driven by irony. —

Kristen Bateman, ELLE, 6 Mar. 2023 Many ho-hum plants in the backyard are transformed into architectural showpieces when a container puts them in the spotlight. —

Carol Stocker, BostonGlobe.com, 1 Mar. 2023

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ho-hum.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

Interjection

imitative

First Known Use

Adjective

1969, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Interjection

1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of ho-hum was in 1924

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Ho-hum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ho-hum. Accessed 22 Mar. 2023.

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Kids Definition

ho hum

interjection

ˈhō-ˈhəm

—used to express weariness, boredom, or disdain

Last Updated: 8 Mar 2023 - Updated example sentences

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