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hackneyed

/ˈhækniːd/

This word is almost always used in a negative way to criticize something for being boring or uncreative. It is commonly used when talking about writing, art, movies, or speeches where the ideas feel like they have been used too many times before.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Karen is at a PTA meeting while David is in his home office.
David Smith

Just pitched the 'synergistic pivot' idea to my boss. He loved it.

David Smith
Karen Smith
Karen Smith

That phrase is so hackneyed, Dave. Give it a rest.

💡
Karen uses 'hackneyed' to criticize David's use of overused corporate buzzwords. The phrase 'give it a rest' is an idiom meaning to stop doing something annoying.

Meanings

adjective

Lacking significance through having been overused; unoriginal and trite.

"The plot of the movie was filled with hackneyed clichés about forbidden love."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error