How Do You Spell HUMDRUM?

Pronunciation: [hˈʌmdɹəm] (IPA)

The word "humdrum" is spelled with a silent "h" at the beginning, followed by the letters "u," "m," "d," "r," "u," and "m." In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be transcribed as /ˈhʌmdrʌm/. The word means dull or monotonous, often used to describe repetitive or uninteresting daily routines. It's important to pay attention to the spelling of this word, as the pronunciation and spelling may not be intuitive for some learners of English.

HUMDRUM Meaning and Definition

1. Humdrum is an adjective that describes something monotonous, dull, or lacking excitement. It refers to a state of routine or ordinary monotony that tends to be repetitive and uninteresting. The term can also be used to characterize tasks, activities, or situations that are unvaried and uninspiring. A humdrum existence often implies a lack of stimulation or novelty, resulting in a sense of tediousness or boredom.

   The word humdrum originates from the combination of the words "hum" and "drum," which can be metaphorically interpreted as a monotonous sound or beat. It suggests a rhythmic uniformity associated with a mundane and repetitive pattern. A humdrum life or routine is often marked by predictability and a lack of diversity, making it predictable and unexciting.

   Humdrum can be used to describe various facets of life such as work, education, or daily routines. It can also refer to the quality of a book, movie, or artistic piece that fails to captivate or engage its audience due to a lack of originality or innovation.

   Overall, the term humdrum encapsulates the essence of a dull, uneventful, and monotonous existence or situation, characterized by a repetitious and predictable nature that fails to stimulate or captivate individuals.

2. • Dull; stupid.

   • What goes on in a humming, drumming, droning way.

   • Monotonous; commonplace; stupid.

   • See under hum.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HUMDRUM

• humdred
• gumdrum
• bumdrum
• numdrum
• jumdrum
• hundrum
• humdruns
• Humatum
• humbdrum
• Humumum
• hunddrum
• Humdras

Etymology of HUMDRUM

The word "humdrum" originated in the late 16th century and combines two older words: "hum" and "drum".

The term "hum" was derived from the Old English word "hymian", meaning to make a murmuring sound. Over time, it developed into the Middle English word "hummen", which referred to making a low, continuous noise or murmuring. This eventually evolved into "hum" in modern English, referring to a low, continuous sound.

The word "drum" has its roots in the Old High German word "trum", which referred to a drum or percussive instrument. In the 16th century, "drum" came to mean to make a rhythmic, monotone sound, mimicking the beat of a drum.

Plural form of HUMDRUM is HUMDRUMS