The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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humdrum

adjective

/ˈhʌmˌdrʌm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of humdrum

Dull, monotonous, or lacking in excitement or variation.
"The humdrum conversation at the party failed to capture anyone's interest."

Detailed meaning of humdrum

It refers to situations, routines, or tasks that are repetitive and mundane, often characterized by a lack of novelty or interest. When something is humdrum, it tends to lack stimulation or the ability to engage or captivate. It suggests a state of monotony or boredom, where activities or experiences become predictable and uninteresting. The term "humdrum" can be applied to various aspects of life, such as work, daily routines, or even social interactions that lack excitement or originality. It conveys a sense of weariness or dissatisfaction that arises from a lack of novelty or diversity in one's experiences.

Example sentences containing humdrum

1. The humdrum routine of waking up, going to work, and coming back home repeated day after day.
2. He longed for adventure and excitement, tired of the humdrum existence of his small town.
3. The office job was so humdrum that it became difficult to find motivation to go to work.
4. The repetitive tasks made the job feel humdrum and unfulfilling.
5. She sought creative outlets to break away from the humdrum of her daily life.
6. The monotonous humdrum of the city traffic outside became the soundtrack of his daily life.

History and etymology of humdrum

The term 'humdrum' has an interesting etymology rooted in its rhythmic and repetitive sound. It originated in the late 16th century and is believed to be an onomatopoeic word, meaning it was formed to mimic the monotonous and repetitive sound of a drumbeat. The 'hum' in 'humdrum' likely represents a continuous, droning noise, while 'drum' emphasizes the repetitive nature of the sound. Over time, this onomatopoeic expression evolved to describe anything that is tedious, lacking in excitement, or characterized by a repetitive and uninteresting routine. Thus, 'humdrum' captures the essence of dullness and monotony through its etymology, reflecting its origins in imitating the monotonous beat of a drum.

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Further usage examples of humdrum

1. The vacation provided a much-needed break from the humdrum of their regular routines.
2. The humdrum nature of their relationship led to a loss of spark and excitement.
3. The rainy days made the atmosphere feel even more humdrum and dreary.
4. The humdrum surroundings of the small town offered little in terms of entertainment or cultural activities.
5. She dreamt of escaping the humdrum and exploring new horizons filled with adventure.
6. Their humdrum routine consisted of work, TV, and sleep.
7. He longed for adventure in his otherwise humdrum life.
8. The humdrum office job left her craving excitement.
9. The city's humdrum skyline lacked architectural flair.
10. The humdrum lecture failed to capture students' interest.
11. In the humdrum suburbs, life moved at a slow pace.
12. She sought refuge in books to escape her humdrum reality.
13. A touch of creativity can liven up a humdrum space.
14. The humdrum of daily life can be broken by simple pleasures.
15. They spiced up their humdrum date night with dancing.
16. The humdrum weather made outdoor plans less appealing.
17. Seeking adventure helped them break free from humdrum routines.
18. A humdrum existence can be transformed with new hobbies.
19. The humdrum soundtrack of the elevator music echoed through.
20. His humdrum job left little room for personal fulfillment.
21. The humdrum town seemed to exist in a time warp.
22. She yearned for a change from her humdrum surroundings.
23. The humdrum tasks of daily life can drain one's spirit.
24. A dash of humor can lighten even the most humdrum days.
25. The humdrum monotony of the commute was a daily struggle.