Boring

Definition

Boring is used as an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes something that is uninteresting, dull, or tedious. As a noun, it refers to the process of making a hole, particularly in drilling or excavating contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɔːrɪŋ/
• Respelling: BOR-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɔːrɪŋ/
• Respelling: BOR-ing

Etymology

The adjective "boring" comes from the verb "bore," which originally meant "to pierce or make a hole" in Middle English. The figurative meaning of causing boredom or dullness developed in the 18th century. The noun "boring" refers to the act of creating a hole and is related to industrial and mechanical processes.

Derivatives

• Boredom (noun)
• Boringly (adverb)
• Bore (verb)
• Bored (adjective)
• Unboring (adjective)

Synonyms

• Dull
• Uninteresting
• Tedious

Antonyms

• Exciting
• Interesting
• Engaging

Usage

The term "boring" is frequently used to describe something that fails to engage attention or evoke interest. For example, "The lecture was boring and difficult to follow," or "The process of drilling through rock involves extensive boring."

Related Terms

• Tedium: The state of being tedious or monotonous.
• Monotony: Lack of variety and interest; tedious repetition and routine.
• Drilling: The act of creating a hole in a material, often as a synonym in industrial contexts.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Uninteresting, dull, or tedious: Refers to something that lacks excitement or fails to engage.
  • Example: "The movie was so boring that many people left early."

Noun

• The process of making a hole: Used to describe the action of drilling or excavating in various materials.
  • Example: "The boring of the tunnel took several months."