Definition Definition

commonplace - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'commonplace' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Commonplace [ a.]
- Common; ordinary; trite; as, a commonplace person, or observation.
2 . Commonplace [ n.]
- An idea or expression wanting originality or interest; a trite or customary remark; a platitude.
- A memorandum; something to be frequently consulted or referred to.
3 . Commonplace [ v. i.]
- To utter commonplaces; to indulge in platitudes.
4 . Commonplace [ v. t.]
- To enter in a commonplace book, or to reduce to general heads.

Meaning of 'commonplace' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . commonplace [ s]
Meaning (1):
- repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
Example in sentence:
  • a stock answer;
  • bromidic sermons;
  • hackneyed phrases;
  • his remarks were trite and commonplace;
  • parroting some timeworn axiom;
  • repeating threadbare jokes;
  • the trite metaphor `hard as nails'
Meaning (2):
- completely ordinary and unremarkable
Example in sentence:
  • air travel has now become commonplace;
  • commonplace everyday activities
Meaning (3):
- not challenging; dull and lacking excitement
Example in sentence:
  • an unglamorous job greasing engines