What does mediocre mean?
Mediocre describes something that is neither notably good nor notably bad, usually implying that it is ordinary, disappointing, or insufficiently distinguished. The word can describe performances, results, writing, food, accommodation, or other aspects of quality, and it often carries a mildly critical tone. “Average” may be relatively neutral, whereas calling something mediocre usually suggests that it fell short of the speaker’s expectations or of a higher standard. Mediocre is especially common in discussion of work, creative output, competition, and everyday experiences. Its usefulness lies in conveying not merely sameness but a lack of excellence: something may be perfectly adequate without being memorable or impressive.
adjectiveNeither good nor bad, but of an ordinary, average, or unremarkable standard.
- Neither good nor bad; ordinary or unremarkable.
- Of a quality that is less good than one might expect; disappointing.
"The film received mediocre reviews despite its impressive budget."
"The committee's proposal was competent but ultimately mediocre."
"His mediocre performance in the second half cost the team the match."
Mediocre comes from the Latin for “middle,” so its basic idea is not failure but an absence of distinction: simply being in the middle.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of mediocre
Mediocre comes from Latin mediocris, meaning “middle” or “average,” and ultimately from medius, “middle.” The word entered English in the early 16th century with the sense of being intermediate or ordinary. Related English words include medium, median, and mediate, which preserve the idea of a central or middle position.
How mediocre is actually used
Generally critical or disparaging. It is often stronger than “average” when the speaker feels that higher quality was expected.
Easily confused with mediocre
A medium is a size, method, or substance, whereas mediocre describes something of only average or unsatisfactory quality.