dull
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dʌl/
KK: /dʌl/
adjective
Definition
Not interesting or exciting; boring. It can also refer to something that is cloudy or lacking brightness.
Example
The movie was so dull that I almost fell asleep.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: duller
Superlative: dullest
Conversation
Did you see that movie last night?
Yeah, I thought it was really dull after the first half.
I agree! The plot just didn’t grab my attention at all.
Exactly, I was hoping for something more exciting.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bland
dreary
stale
Antonyms
exciting
bright
sharp
transitive verb
Definition
To make something less sharp or less bright; to reduce the intensity or effectiveness of something.
Example
The teacher tried to dull the students' excitement with too many rules.
Tense Forms
Past: dulled
Past Participle: dulled
Conversation
I think this movie might dull my excitement for the weekend.
Really? I thought it looked interesting!
Yeah, but some parts seem so slow that they could dull the fun.
Root Explanation
The word 'dull' originates from Old English 'dull', meaning blunt or not sharp. It describes something that lacks sharpness or brightness, both in a physical and metaphorical sense.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'not sharp' or 'blunt' — that's why we use 'dull' to describe things that lack brightness or excitement.
Visually Confused Words
ull
undull
duello
dually
dehull
bedull