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

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 they were unable to break through the widespread perception among shopkeepers and residents that the current crop of city and county leaders did not have forceful answers to the region’s ongoing struggles with homelessness, street crime and lackluster economies that have not yet bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

In private, he was not only cold and aloof but a lackluster father and a hard-drinking womanizer who, when under the influence, sometimes got physical with his wives.

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