Langimage
English

ordinary

|or-di-na-ry|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈɔːrdəˌneri/

🇬🇧

/ˈɔːdɪnəri/

commonplace

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ordinary' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ordinarius,' where 'ordo' meant 'order.'

Historical Evolution

'ordinarius' transformed into the Old French word 'ordinaire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ordinary' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'belonging to the usual order,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'common or normal.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the regular or customary condition or course of things.

He longed for a return to the ordinary.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

with no special or distinctive features; normal.

She was just an ordinary girl.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35