Dull

/dʌl/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To make or become less sharp.
The constant use of the knife has dulled its edge.
To lessen the intensity of something.
The medication dulled the pain significantly.
adjective
Lacking brightness, vividness, or sheen; not sharp.
The sun set behind a dull gray cloud.
Lacking interest or excitement; boring.
The lecture was so dull that many students fell asleep.
Not intelligent; stupid.
His dull response suggested that he had not understood the question.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English 'dull', meaning 'blunt, weak'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

dull as dishwater
Extremely boring or uninteresting.
dull blade
A tool or knife that is not sharp.
dull pain
A persistent, low-grade pain.

Related Words

dullness
The quality of being dull; lack of interest.
dully
In a dull manner.

Slang Meanings

Bland
That movie was so bland, it was downright dull.
Boring
This meeting is really dull; I just want to go home.