inane
UK: ɪˈneɪn | US: ɪˈneɪn
adj. lacking sense or substance; silly or pointless
inane = in<not> + ane<empty>
- in (Latin prefix meaning "not")
- ane (from Latin inanis, meaning "empty" or "void")
Etymology Origin:
The word "inane" traces back to Latin inanis, meaning "empty" or "void." The prefix in- negates the root, giving the sense of "not filled with meaning" or "devoid of substance." Over time, it evolved in English to describe ideas, remarks, or actions that are frivolous or lacking intelligence. The logic follows a clear progression from physical emptiness (inanis) to abstract emptiness (lack of sense).
His inane comments during the meeting wasted everyone's time.
The movie's plot was so inane that I left halfway through.
She sighed at the inane chatter of her classmates.
Politicians often avoid inane debates to focus on real issues.
The internet is flooded with inane memes and trivial content.