boredom

noun

bore·​dom ˈbȯr-dəm How to pronounce boredom (audio)
Synonyms of boredom
: the state of being weary and restless through lack of interest
the boredom of a long car trip

Synonyms of boredom

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Examples of boredom in a Sentence

On days when few customers came to shop, Bob felt overwhelmed by boredom. the boredom of a long car trip
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Oscar-winning actor, 39, stars as the titular Thomas Crown, a billionaire who decides to relieve his boredom with a heist of a treasured painting, in a thrilling first glimpse of the 2027 film. — Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 29 July 2026 Providing ample physical stimulation and exercise for your dog can quash barking triggers such as boredom, anxiety and stress. — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 28 July 2026 While the crews work to ensure their ships remain seaworthy, and movies and ping-pong serve as distractions, staving off boredom and depression is a struggle. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 27 July 2026 Calder may have mistaken writing about boredom for writing boredom. — Hillary Kelly, The Atlantic, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for boredom

Word History

Etymology

bore entry 5 + -dom

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of boredom was in 1853

Rhymes for boredom

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Browse Nearby Words

bored
boredom
boree
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Cite this Entry

“Boredom.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boredom. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

boredom

noun
bore·​dom ˈbō(ə)rd-əm How to pronounce boredom (audio)
ˈbȯ(ə)rd-
: the state of being bored

More from Merriam-Webster on boredom

Nglish: Translation of boredom for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about boredom

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