mediocrity
UK: /ˌmiː.diˈɒk.rə.ti/ | US: /ˌmiː.diˈɑː.krə.ti/
n. the quality of being average or ordinary, often implying a lack of excellence
n. (historical) a middle state or condition; moderation
mediocrity = medi<middle> + ocrity<noun suffix>
- medi<middle>: From Latin medius (middle), reflecting the idea of being intermediate or average.
- ocrity<noun suffix>: Derived from Latin -ocritas, a suffix forming abstract nouns indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word mediocrity traces back to Latin mediocritas, meaning "moderation" or "middle state." Originally neutral, it described balance (e.g., Aristotle’s "golden mean"). Over time, it acquired a pejorative sense in English (16th century), emphasizing ordinariness as a failing rather than virtue. The shift mirrors cultural valorization of exceptionalism over moderation.
His work was criticized for its mediocrity, lacking creativity or depth.
She refused to accept mediocrity and strived for excellence in every task.
The restaurant’s food was the epitome of mediocrity—neither good nor bad.
In ancient philosophy, mediocrity was sometimes praised as a path to harmony.
The team’s mediocrity this season disappointed their fans.