middle-of-the-road
|mid/dle/of/the/road|
🇺🇸
/ˌmɪd.əl.əv.ðəˈroʊd/
🇬🇧
/ˌmɪd.əl.əv.ðəˈrəʊd/
moderate
Etymology
'middle-of-the-road' originates from the literal phrase 'middle of the road,' referring to a position that is neither left nor right, but central.
The phrase 'middle of the road' was used in the 19th century to describe a literal position on a road, and it evolved into a metaphorical expression for moderation in the 20th century.
Initially, it meant 'a central position on a road,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'moderate or not extreme.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not extreme; moderate or average in quality, style, or politics.
The band's music is very middle-of-the-road, appealing to a wide audience.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/30 21:16