unlyrical
|un-lyr-i-cal|
🇺🇸
/ʌnˈlɪrɪkəl/
🇬🇧
/ʌnˈlɪrɪk(ə)l/
not poetic or expressive
Etymology
'unlyrical' originates from English, formed by the negative prefix 'un-' + the adjective 'lyrical' (meaning 'of or like poetry or song').
'lyrical' comes from Greek 'lyrikos' (relating to the lyre) via Latin 'lyricus' and Old French/Middle English developments; 'lyrical' acquired the sense 'expressive like lyric poetry', and English formed 'unlyrical' by adding the prefix 'un-'.
Originally related to the lyre and songs accompanied by it ('of the lyre' or 'songlike'), 'lyrical' shifted to mean 'expressive, poetic, emotionally expressive'; 'unlyrical' consequently came to mean 'not poetic or emotionally expressive'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not lyrical; lacking the poetic beauty, emotional expressiveness, or grace typical of lyric poetry or highly expressive language.
The novel's prose felt unlyrical, offering facts without emotional depth.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
not musical or melodious; lacking in musical qualities or not suitable for singing.
The speaker's delivery was unlyrical and monotone, making it hard to stay engaged.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/15 04:58