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Jejune
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Meaning
'Jejune' refers to something that is uninteresting, dull, or lacking significance. Many people claim to find celebrity gossip jejune, but ask them about a recent movie star scandal, and chances are they know all the details.
Pronunciation
juh·joon
Origin
The word 'jejune' comes from the Latin term ieiunus, which means:
- 'Empty' or 'dry' (when referring to things like land or stomachs).
- 'Hungry' or 'fasting' (when referring to people).
Historical usage
- 17th century: Initially, 'jejune' was more closely aligned with its Latin roots, referring to things that were barren, dry, or lacking physical sustenance.
- 18th century Onwards: The word's metaphorical meaning expanded to describe things that were intellectually or emotionally unsatisfying.
- Modern usage: Today, 'jejune' is most commonly used to critique ideas, works, or people for being dull, shallow, or immature.
Cultural and literary notes
The word is often used in academic, intellectual, or literary contexts to offer a sophisticated critique. Famous writers and critics have used jejune to dismiss works they find uninspired or lacking depth.
Examples from books and articles
It needs only to compare recent memoirs of her with the jejune attempts of the last century to perceive how much her cause gains from fuller and closer investigation. — E Rameur
He secured his aunt's best scissors, fished a sixpence out of his jejune tin money box, and jabbed his finger in a varied series of attempts to get it in half. — Kipps: The Story of a Simple Soul by H G Wells
Synonyms
- Boring
- Bland
- Insipid
- Mundane
- Dreary
- Tiresome
- Vapid
- Tedious
- Monotonous
- Flat
That’s all for today’s 'word of the day!' Hope this article helps you enhance your vocabulary. Stay tuned for more exciting word explorations!
Published: 16 Jan 2025, 07:00 am IST
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