lackluster

[ lak-luhs-ter ]

adjective

1. lacking lack brilliance or radiance; dull:

   lackluster eyes.

2. lacking lack liveliness, vitality, spirit, or enthusiasm:

   a lackluster performance.

noun

1. a lack of brilliance or vitality.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lackluster¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; lack + luster ¹

Example Sentences

Following this estimate, consumer spending is expected to perform relatively well during the holiday season and could relieve some retailers who had a lackluster Black Friday, according to Reuters.

From Salon

They hit it quickly, she said, with the deals proving more lackluster than the family had hoped.

From Los Angeles Times

The entertainment segment’s operating income for the quarter totaled $1.1 billion, quadruple the same quarter a year earlier, which included the lackluster “Haunted Mansion.”

From Los Angeles Times

But she said she is concerned about the district’s lackluster communication to families.

From Los Angeles Times

Since then, however, some have argued that her campaign has been lackluster, her speeches too carefully scripted and vetted, too cautious and repetitive, dampening some of the enthusiasm that erupted over the summer.

From Salon

Related Words

• boring
• flat
• ho-hum
• muted
• uninspired