INSIPID Synonyms: 90 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'insipid' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of insipid are banal , flat , inane , jejune , and vapid . While all these words mean "devoid of qualities that make for spirit and character," insipid implies a lack of sufficient taste or savor to please or interest. // an insipid romance with platitudes on every page

Q: When is 'banal' a more appropriate choice than 'insipid'?

In some situations, the words banal and insipid are roughly equivalent. However, banal stresses the complete absence of freshness, novelty, or immediacy. // a banal tale of unrequited love

Q: When might 'flat' be a better fit than 'insipid'?

The words flat and insipid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flat applies to things that have lost their sparkle or zest. // although well-regarded in its day, the novel now seems flat

Q: In what contexts can 'inane' take the place of 'insipid'?

The meanings of inane and insipid largely overlap; however, inane implies a lack of any significant or convincing quality. // an inane interpretation of the play

Q: Where would 'jejune' be a reasonable alternative to 'insipid'?

Although the words jejune and insipid have much in common, jejune suggests a lack of rewarding or satisfying substance. // a jejune and gassy speech

Q: When can 'vapid' be used instead of 'insipid'?

The words vapid and insipid can be used in similar contexts, but vapid suggests a lack of liveliness, force, or spirit. // an exciting story given a vapid treatment

insipid

adjective

in-ˈsi-pəd

Definition of insipid next

as in bland

lacking in taste or flavor an apple pie with a mushy, insipid filling that strongly resembled soggy cardboard

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in boring

lacking in qualities that make for spirit and character an insipid and somewhat boring movie about teenagers in love

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word insipid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of insipid are banal, flat, inane, jejune, and vapid. While all these words mean "devoid of qualities that make for spirit and character," insipid implies a lack of sufficient taste or savor to please or interest.

an insipid romance with platitudes on every page

When is banal a more appropriate choice than insipid?

In some situations, the words banal and insipid are roughly equivalent. However, banal stresses the complete absence of freshness, novelty, or immediacy.

a banal tale of unrequited love

When might flat be a better fit than insipid?

The words flat and insipid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flat applies to things that have lost their sparkle or zest.

although well-regarded in its day, the novel now seems flat

In what contexts can inane take the place of insipid?

The meanings of inane and insipid largely overlap; however, inane implies a lack of any significant or convincing quality.

an inane interpretation of the play

Where would jejune be a reasonable alternative to insipid?

Although the words jejune and insipid have much in common, jejune suggests a lack of rewarding or satisfying substance.

a jejune and gassy speech

When can vapid be used instead of insipid?

The words vapid and insipid can be used in similar contexts, but vapid suggests a lack of liveliness, force, or spirit.

an exciting story given a vapid treatment

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of insipid Final flourishes offer confusion: Kora confronts a giant Kali statue (Hindu myth replicating the insipid Issa ideal). —

Armond White, National Review, 9 Aug. 2024 Here’s the scoop on zero sugar root beers that are just as delicious as the full-sugar versions, and the insipid pours not worthy of a glass — much less the ice cream to dress it up. —

Jolene Thym, The Mercury News, 9 July 2024 Still, kudos to the hair team for his three vivid coiffures: an insipid swoop, an aggressive buzz cut and a monkish raze. —

Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2024 England was similarly dominant in possession against Iceland in the final friendly before the start of Euro 2024, but an insipid performance ended with the visitor earning a famous victory at Wembley. —

Matias Grez, CNN, 16 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for insipid

Recent Examples of Synonyms for insipid

Adjective

Eat solid foods that taste bland, are high in carbohydrates, and are low in fat.

— Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 4 Feb. 2025
He’s neutered down to a bland, depressing facsimile of himself here, a white-bread double-take machine reacting to the theoretical comedic stylings of Nicole Kidman.

— Tim Grierson, Vulture, 4 Feb. 2025