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Definition of mediocrity

mediocrity

/ˌmiːdiˈɑːkrəti/
me · di · oc · ri · ty
Adverb:mediocrely
•
Plural:mediocrities
•
Adjective:mediocre
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mediocrity Lexical Profile

mediocrity Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being merely average, ordinary, or of moderate and uninspiring ability, value, or worth.

Example

"The new director refused to settle for mediocrity and pushed the entire ensemble to deliver their finest performance."

2

A person of only moderate, unremarkable, or undistinguished talent, ability, or achievement.

Example

"History often forgets the cautious mediocrities who held high office while remembering the bold reformers they opposed."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

medinilla
mediocre
mediocrely
mediocrity
meditate
meditation
meditational

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Middle French médiocrité, from Latin mediocritās, derived from mediocris ('of middle height or degree'), which literally meant 'halfway up a rugged mountain' (from medius 'middle' + ocris 'jagged mountain').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mediocrity. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mediocrity
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