online vocabulary.com

Humdrum - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Humdrum means dull, monotonous, or lacking excitement. It describes routines or situations that are repetitive and uninteresting, often causing boredom or weariness. Example: a humdrum job.

humdrum

/ˈhəmˌdrəm/ /ˈhʌmdrʌm/

Definition:

Lacking excitement or variety; dull and monotonous.

Synonyms:

mundane, tedious, monotonous, boring

Part of Speech:

adjective, noun

Antonyms:

exciting, thrilling

Common Collocations:

humdrum life, humdrum routine, humdrum existence

Derivatives:

humdrumness (noun), humdrumly (adverb)

Usage Tips:

Use "humdrum" to describe repetitive or uninteresting routines or situations to emphasize their dullness.

Common Phrases:

break the humdrum, escape the humdrum, humdrum of daily life

Etymology:

Originated in the 16th century from "hum" (monotonous sound) + "drum" (repetitive noise).

Examples:

  • 1. She grew tired of her humdrum job at the factory.
  • 2. The small town’s humdrum lifestyle bored the adventurous traveler.
  • 3. His days were filled with humdrum tasks and little excitement.
  • 4. They longed to escape the humdrum of their daily routine.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS