blandly
|bland-ly|
/ˈblænd.li/
mild and unremarkable
Etymology
'bland' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'blandus', where 'blandus' meant 'flattering' or 'soothing'.
'blandus' passed into Old French (as 'bland') and then into Middle English as 'bland'; the adverb 'blandly' developed from the adjective 'bland' in later English.
Initially it meant 'flattering' or 'soothing', but over time it shifted toward the sense of 'mild, unremarkable, or lacking strong flavor/interest' used in modern English.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a bland manner; without strong flavor, character, or interest; mildly and unexcitingly.
He smiled blandly and changed the subject.
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Antonyms
Adverb 2
in a smooth, mild, or ingratiating manner that may lack sincerity or strength (often implying polite but unenthusiastic behavior).
She answered the reporter's questions blandly, giving no hint of emotion.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/01 19:26