Synonyms

lackluster

American

[lak-luhs-ter] / ˈlækˌlʌs tər /

especially British, lacklustre

adjective

lacking lack brilliance or radiance; dull.

lackluster eyes.
lacking lack liveliness, vitality, spirit, or enthusiasm.

a lackluster performance.

noun

a lack of brilliance or vitality.

Etymology

Origin of lackluster

First recorded in 1590–1600; lack + luster ¹

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In spring 2019, lackluster farming economics turned around as flooding prevented many farmers from planting crops.

From The Wall Street Journal

Both were criticized for proving to be lackluster contests, but drew enormous global attention.

From Barron's

California’s problems go beyond taxes and a lackluster economy.

From The Wall Street Journal

On the surface, markets have had a lackluster start to the year.

From Barron's

Concerns about lackluster effort in past All-Star contests were eased in the new format, which produced hustle, defensive effort plus competitive spark and a high-energy hunger to win.

From Barron's

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023