ho-hum

[ hoh-huhm, -huhm ]

interjection

1. (an exclamation expressing boredom, weariness, or contempt.)

adjective

1. dull, boring, or routine; so-so:

   a ho-hum performance.

ho-hum

/ ˈhəʊˌhʌm /

adjective

1. informal.
   lacking interest or inspiration; dull; mediocre

   a ho-hum album

Word History and Origins

Origin of ho-hum¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Case in point, the dreary, pedestrian and ho-hum retelling of O’Barr’s story, also called “The Crow,” this time directed by Rupert Sanders.

From Los Angeles Times

The news stories on Sunday reporting the event were brief and kind of ho-hum.

From Salon

It could have been a ho-hum sketch, but Edebiri’s over-the-top line readings and full-bodied spasms as Solomon elevate it to one of the best of the week.

From Los Angeles Times

That was an emotional high of a ho-hum game.

From Seattle Times

That’s when James was asked why, after back-to-back seasons of ho-hum defense, he thought the Chargers would leap forward in 2023.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• boring
• dull
• routine
• so-so