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Definition of plodding

plodding

/ˈplɑː.dɪŋ/
plod · ding
Adverb:ploddingly
•
Plural:ploddings
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plodding Lexical Profile

plodding Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Slow-moving, laborious, and unexciting; lacking in imagination or originality.

Example

"Critics complained that the film's plodding plot failed to capture the excitement of the original novel."

2

Thorough and hard-working, though slow and methodical rather than brilliant.

Example

"Through years of plodding research in the archives, the historian finally uncovered the missing letters."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

The act of walking heavily or working slowly and perseveringly at a dull task.

Example

"After hours of steady plodding through the deep snow, the hikers finally reached the mountain cabin."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for plodding

• Nearby Words

pliva waterfall
plod
plodder
plodding
plonk
plop
plot

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived in the mid-16th century from the verb 'plod', which is likely of imitative origin, echoing the sound of heavy, slow footsteps.

Cite this Entry

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