jejune

1. Naive, simplistic, and superficial; lacking in substance or depth.

   synonyms:insipidimmature

2. Dull or uninteresting.

   synonyms:tediousboring

The word 'jejune' comes from the Latin 'jejunus', meaning 'fasting' or 'empty', which later evolved to signify something lacking in nourishment or substance.

Commonly used in literary and critical contexts to describe ideas, arguments, or works that are perceived as lacking depth or significance.

While not used in everyday conversation, it appears in educated discourse, particularly in literature and critique, making it moderately recognizable.

The professor's lecture was so jejune that many students struggled to stay awake.

His jejune understanding of the complex topic became evident during the discussion.

Critics panned the film for its jejune plot and lack of character development.

The word 'jejune' may sound unusual, but it has a fascinating history rooted in the Latin language. Originally referring to fasting, it has come to describe ideas or works that feel empty or lacking in depth. Often used in literary criticism, this term gives voice to the frustration of encountering something that fails to engage or stimulate. Next time you find yourself bored by a book or a conversation, you might just call it jejune!