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Definition of bland
bland
/blænd/
bland
Adverb:blandly
bland Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
6
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
Syllables
1
bland Game Scores & Validity
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WWF
Wordle Guess
• adjective
1
Lacking strong flavor or seasoning; mild and non-irritating to the palate or digestive tract.
Example
"The doctor recommended a bland diet of plain rice and broth while she recovered from the stomach flu."
2
Lacking distinctive features, excitement, or emotional depth; dull and uninspiring.
Example
"Critics complained that the sequel had a bland storyline and forgettable characters."
3
Showing no strong emotion; polite, smooth, and unruffled in manner.
Example
"The spokesperson maintained a bland smile while deflecting the reporters' pointed questions."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for bland Antonyms
View all antonyms for bland• Rhymes for bland
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Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin blandus, meaning 'soft, smooth, flattering, or pleasant to the senses,' which gradually shifted in English from 'soothing' to 'lacking distinctive flavor or interest.'
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bland. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bland