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Nondescript Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nondescript

[nษ’ndษชหˆskrษชpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

general description

The term 'nondescript' refers to something that is lacking distinctive or interesting features or characteristics. It is often used to describe people, places, or things that are unremarkable or ordinary in appearance or nature. For example, a building may be described as nondescript if it does not stand out amidst others.

Synonyms

bland, commonplace, drab, ordinary, unremarkable.

Examples of usage

  • The restaurant was located in a nondescript building.
  • He wore a nondescript outfit that blended in with the crowd.
  • The city was filled with nondescript houses.
  • Her nondescript appearance made her easy to overlook.
  • They chose a nondescript vehicle to avoid drawing attention.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In literature and film, nondescript characters often play crucial roles, symbolizing the everyman or the ordinary person within extraordinary situations.
  • Certain clothing brands thrive on nondescript styles, appealing to consumers who prefer subtlety over flashiness.

Psychology

  • People may overlook nondescript items or individuals because they don't elicit strong feelings, which shows how our brains prioritize memorable features.
  • In social psychology, being nondescript can lead to a feeling of invisibility, affecting one's self-esteem and sense of belonging.

Art

  • In art, some artists intentionally create nondescript works to provoke thought about perception and meaning, encouraging viewers to consider what makes something noteworthy.
  • The use of nondescript colors and forms in minimalism often challenges traditional notions of beauty and significance in art.

Business

  • In marketing, nondescript branding can sometimes lead to consumer indifference, highlighting the importance of standing out in a competitive market.
  • Organizations may adopt nondescript corporate identities to project professionalism and avoid attracting negative attention.

Origin of 'nondescript'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'nondescript' comes from the prefix 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'descript', which relates to describing.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century and has been used to refer to things that lack distinct characteristics.

The word 'nondescript' is formed from the prefix 'non-' meaning 'not' and the word 'descript', which is derived from the Latin 'descriptus', the past participle of 'describere' meaning 'to describe'. This etymology reflects the meaning of the word; something that cannot be described distinctly or which lacks identifiable characteristics. 'Nondescript' first entered the English language in the early 20th century, specifically around 1920, primarily to describe people or objects that are deemed ordinary and not worth mentioning. The usage of the term has remained consistent, capturing the essence of things that are plain or unexceptional, often used in contrast to more striking or remarkable entities.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,171, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.