ordinary
UK: ˈɔːdənri | US: ˈɔːrdəneri
adj. 1. Having no special or distinctive features; normal or usual.
adj. 2. Of common rank, quality, or ability; average.
n. 3. A person with authority within a specific sphere, especially a judge or bishop.
The word "ordinary" traces back to the Latin "ordinarius," meaning "regular, customary," derived from "ordo" (order). It entered Middle English via Old French "ordinarie," retaining the sense of conformity to a standard or norm. The morpheme "ordin" reflects the foundational idea of order or rank, while "-ary" denotes a relational adjective. Over time, "ordinary" evolved to emphasize the absence of exceptional qualities, contrasting with "extraordinary."
The meal was quite ordinary, lacking any memorable flavors.
She preferred ordinary clothes over flashy designer outfits.
In medieval times, an ordinary had judicial responsibilities.
His talents were ordinary, but his hard work set him apart.
The meeting followed the ordinary schedule without delays.