Hackneyed
Adjective
Definition: (of a phrase or idea) having been overused; unoriginal and trite.
Synonyms: Clichéd, Overused, Trite, Unoriginal, Stale
Antonyms: Fresh, Original, Innovative
- The speech was filled with hackneyed phrases that failed to engage the audience.
- The movie relied on hackneyed plot twists, making it predictable and uninteresting.
- "Hackneyed" can be remembered by associating it with the word "hacked" which suggests something has been tampered with or overused.
Etymology:
The word "hackneyed" derives from the term "hackney," which originally referred to a horse available for hire. Over time, "hackneyed" came to mean "worn-out" or "commonplace," akin to a horse that had been used and ridden by many people.
Historical Usage:The use of the term "hackneyed" to describe something as overused or trite emerged in the mid-18th century.
Related Idioms:
"Hackneyed phrase"
Explanation:Refers to a clichéd or trite expression that has been used excessively, lacking originality or freshness.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "hackneyed" with "haggard" due to similarities in spelling.
Explanation:"Hackneyed" refers to something that is overused or trite, while "haggard" means looking exhausted or gaunt. These two words have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.