prosaic
Americanadjective
-
lacking imagination
-
having the characteristics of prose
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of prosaic
First recorded in 1650–60, prosaic is from the Late Latin word prōsaicus. See prose, -ic
Explanation
Prosaic means ordinary or dull. Most of us lead a prosaic everyday life, sometimes interrupted by some drama or crisis. This adjective is from Latin prosa, "prose," which is ordinary writing intended to communicate ideas and information. Prose is often contrasted with poetry, which usually has a more imaginative and original style.
Vocabulary lists containing prosaic
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Dracula
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The "Banjska incident" is a prosaic label for one of the most dramatic, dangerous and deadly days Kosovo has seen since it unilaterally declared independence from Serbia in 2008.
From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026
Mr. Warshaw’s argument is, in fact, something considerably more prosaic: a category error dressed in prophetic clothing.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026
While Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea are global brands followed by millions, with stars on the pitch and in the stands, the English second tier has traditionally been a more prosaic affair.
From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026
If we must have a fourth and fifth “Avatar,” Cameron should ditch these increasingly prosaic battlefield thrills for something really bold: Follow the kids to alien college for a mumblecore movie.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2025
In part, Latin permitted escape from the prosaic world.
From "Hunger of Memory" by Richard Rodriguez
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
