Pronunciation: /dʌl/

Definitions of dull

verb make or become less sharp, intense, or distinct

Example Sentences

A1 The movie was so dull that I fell asleep.

A2 She dulled the knife by using it to cut through tough meat.

B1 The constant rain dulled the colors of the painting over time.

B2 He dulled his emotions to cope with the stress of his job.

C1 The medication dulled the pain in her knee, allowing her to walk without discomfort.

C2 The years of working in a windowless office dulled her enthusiasm for life.

adjective lacking interest or excitement; not bright, intense, or clear

Example Sentences

A1 The movie was dull and boring.

A2 The teacher's lectures were often dull and uninspiring.

B1 The presentation was quite dull, lacking any interesting visuals or anecdotes.

B2 The novel started off slow and dull, but eventually picked up pace.

C1 The museum exhibit was criticized for its dull and unimaginative design.

C2 The play received mixed reviews, with some critics calling it dull and unoriginal.

Examples of dull in a Sentence

formal The lecture was quite dull, lacking any engaging content.

informal I find history class so dull, I can barely stay awake.

slang This movie is so dull, I'd rather watch paint dry.

figurative His personality is as dull as a rusty blade, lacking any spark or excitement.

Grammatical Forms of dull

past tense

dulled

plural

dulls

comparative

duller

superlative

dullest

present tense

dull

future tense

will dull

perfect tense

has dulled

continuous tense

is dulling

singular

dull

positive degree

dull

infinitive

to dull

gerund

dulling

participle

dulled

Origin and Evolution of dull

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'dull' originated from the Old English word 'dol' meaning stupid or foolish.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the meaning of 'dull' has evolved to include lack of sharpness or brightness, as well as boredom or lack of interest.