Pronunciation: [ buh-nal ]
Definition: adjective
devoid of freshness or originality; hackneyed; trite
Origin: Mid 18th century; French
Etymology: originally relating to feudal service in the sense ‘compulsory’, hence ‘common to all’: from French, from ban ‘a proclamation or call to arms’; ultimately of Germanic origin and related to ban
Usage:
Synonyms:
bland
corny
dumb
hackneyed
mundane
vapid
Antonyms:
intelligent
new
original
sharp
smart
uncommon
Example:
The professor's presentation was banal and many students fell asleep.