banal
UK: bəˈnɑːl | US: bəˈnɑːl
adj. lacking originality, freshness, or novelty; trite
adj. commonplace or predictable
No data yet.
The word banal entered English in the 18th century from French, where it originally referred to things related to feudal service (e.g., a communal mill or oven). Over time, it broadened to mean "commonplace" or "unoriginal," reflecting its association with shared, everyday resources. The shift from literal communal use to metaphorical dullness captures its semantic evolution.
The movie's plot was so banal that I guessed the ending within minutes.
His speech was filled with banal clichés about hard work and perseverance.
Critics dismissed the artwork as banal and uninspired.
She grew tired of the banal small talk at corporate events.
The writer avoided banal phrases to keep the essay fresh.