First Known Use: 1565
Dictionary
bland
adjective \ˈbland\
: not interesting or exciting
: lacking strong flavor
: showing no emotion, concern, etc.
Full Definition of BLAND
1
a : smooth and soothing in manner or quality <a bland smile> b : exhibiting no personal concern or embarrassment : unperturbed <a bland confession of guilt>
2
a : not irritating, stimulating, or invigorating : soothing b : dull, insipid <bland stories with little plot or action>
— bland·ly \ˈblan(d)-lē\ adverb
— bland·ness \ˈblan(d)-nəs\ noun
See bland defined for English-language learners
See bland defined for kids
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Origin of BLAND
Latin blandus
Related to BLAND
Synonym Discussion of BLAND
suave, urbane, diplomatic, bland, smooth, politic mean pleasantly tactful and well-mannered. suave suggests a specific ability to deal with others easily and without friction <a suave public relations coordinator>. urbane implies high cultivation and poise coming from wide social experience <an urbane traveler>. diplomatic stresses an ability to deal with ticklish situations tactfully <a diplomatic negotiator>. bland emphasizes mildness of manner and absence of irritating qualities <a bland master of ceremonies>. smooth suggests often a deliberately assumed suavity <a smooth salesman>. politic implies shrewd as well as tactful and suave handling of people <a cunningly politic manager>.
BLAND Defined for Kids
bland
adjective \ˈbland\
bland·erbland·est
Definition of BLAND for Kids
1
: not interesting or exiciting <a bland story>
2
: not having much flavor <a bland soup>
3
: not showing emotion <a bland face>
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