English Dictionary

Definition of “humdrum

humdrum (ˈhʌmˌdrʌmPronunciation for humdrum

Definitions

adjective

  1. ordinary; dull

noun

  1. a monotonous routine, task, or person

Alternative Forms

ˈhumˌdrumness noun

Word Origin

C16: rhyming compound, probably based on hum

Usage examples

  • ) The humdrum , quotidian concerns of the workplace are wearisome; they chip slowly but resolutely away at one's soul.
    Alex George, LOVE YOU MADLY (2002)
  • For most, it would then be time to get back to the humdrum of ordinary life.
    India Today (1997)
  • The support of 10 children, his own island in Tahiti and many other expenses caused him to accept roles in humdrum movies.
    The Mercury, Sunday Tasmanian (2004)
  • True, the sight of an early abortion - a small tablespoonful of blood and mucus on a petri dish - was surprisingly humdrum.
    Belfast Telegraph (2004)
  • As with so much of nature, their world was knitted together into a humdrum rhythm of normality.
    Michael Boulter, EXTINCTION: Evolution and the End of Man (2002)

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