Lackluster: meaning, definitions and examples

😕

Add to dictionary

lackluster

[ˈlakˌləstər ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

lacking in vitality, energy, or brightness; dull; uninspiring

Word	Description / Examples
lackluster	Best used to describe something that is mediocre, not very exciting, or lacking in brilliance or energy. The movie had a lackluster plot and failed to captivate the audience Her performance was lackluster and failed to impress the judges
dull	Can describe something that is not interesting or exciting. Often used for objects, performances, or experiences. The lecture was so dull that I nearly fell asleep The knife was too dull to cut through the bread
lifeless	Used to describe something that appears to have no energy, vitality, or life; can describe physical things, abstract concepts, or people. The plant looks lifeless after not being watered for days His eyes were lifeless, showing no emotion
uninspiring	Describes something that fails to motivate or excite someone; often used in contexts like speeches, events, or environments. The conference was uninspiring and did not provide any new information Her speech was uninspiring and did not motivate the team
drab	Applicable when describing something that is dull and lacks color or brightness, often used for physical appearances or settings. The room was painted in drab colors that made it feel uninspiring His outfit was quite drab compared to everyone else's

His lackluster performance failed to impress the audience.
The lackluster colors of the painting made it less appealing.
She gave a lackluster presentation that didn't capture the attention of the listeners.

The word combines 'lack' meaning absence and 'luster' which refers to shine or brightness.
It originated in the early 19th century, first appearing in written texts around 1837.
It was initially used to describe a lack of brightness in jewels or metals before its meaning expanded.

The term has commonly appeared in music and film reviews, often describing performances that failed to impress.
In 2013, the term was used in several hit songs to convey a sense of disappointment in relationships.
Critics often describe sequels or remakes as lackluster when they do not meet the expectations set by their predecessors.

A lackluster mood can result from various factors, including fatigue, stress, or a lack of interest in activities.
Research shows that engaging in creative activities can help improve a lackluster emotional state by boosting happiness.
The feeling of lackluster often correlates with a phenomenon known as 'hedonic adaptation,' where people quickly return to a baseline level of happiness after positive or negative events.

Authors often use lackluster characters to create contrast with more vibrant, dynamic figures in their stories.
In poetry, lackluster descriptions can evoke a sense of monotony, reflecting the speaker's emotional state or a dull setting.
The use of lackluster imagery can enhance themes of despair or disenchantment in literary works.

In art, lackluster designs may not capture attention, prompting artists to explore vibrant colors and dynamic forms to engage viewers.
Interior design trends sometimes critique lackluster color schemes, favoring schemes that invoke energy and warmth.
Graphic designers often aim to avoid lackluster layouts, focusing instead on strong visual hierarchy and engaging typography.

Translations of the word "lackluster" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sem brilho

🇮🇳 निराशाजनक

🇩🇪 glanzlos

🇮🇩 kusam

🇺🇦 тьмяний

🇵🇱 bezbarwny

🇯🇵 輝きのない

🇫🇷 terne

🇪🇸 sin brillo

🇹🇷 parlak olmayan

🇰🇷 활기 없는

🇸🇦 باهت

🇨🇿 bez lesku

🇸🇰 bez lesku

🇨🇳 黯淡

🇸🇮 brez leska

🇮🇸 líflaus

🇰🇿 жарқырамаған

🇬🇪 მუქი

🇦🇿 parıltısız

🇲🇽 sin brillo