You’ve probably heard someone say “meh” before, but do you know what it means? This article will give you the scoop the meaning of meh.
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Kevin
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May 18, 2022
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Common Questions
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As one of the most popular internet slang terms used today, chances are you’ve come across someone saying “meh” — but do you know what it means? Or how to use “meh” properly in a sentence? Not to worry; we’re here to help.
In this guide, we’re exploring “meh” to uncover its definition, origin, and more. So, if you’ve ever wondered about “meh,” — keep reading.
What Is the Definition of Meh?
Collins English Dictionary states that the meh can be used as an adjective meaning; boring or mediocre) or as an exclamation referencing an expression of indifference or apathy. Basically, envision the verbal equivalent of a shrug, and you’ve got our word of the day — meh.
What Is the Origin of Meh?
The etymology of the term meh is a little hazy at best. While some say that meh originated from the yiddish term with a similar meaning (feh), other sources point toward an online forum from 1992 called “Melrose Place,” where an online user wrote,”Meh — far too Ken-doll for me.”
That said, the popular television show called “The Simpsons” is widely known for popularizing the term. During the episode titled “Hungry, Hungry, Homer,” both Bart and Lisa use the term “meh” to express their apathy towards Homer’s idea to go to Blockoland.
The episode, which first aired on March 4th of, 2001, literally spelled out the term “M-E-H” for its viewers.
Other Words Popularized by Television Shows
What you may not have guessed is that meh is not the only word to be popularized by a television series or movie. In fact, there are quite a few words that not only have gained popularity through TV shows but some have even been added to the dictionary.
Below we have included a few of the most commonly popularized words:
- Not! — Saturday Night Live sketch, “Wayne’s World.”
- Cowabunga — While many may know it from” The Simpsons” this term was first coined on the TV show “Howdy Doody.” An interjection used to express satisfaction or delight.
- Regifting — Popularized by Seinfeld, this is a practice of giving an individual a gift you have previously received from another.
- Debbie Downer — Most commonly known as a person who ruins others’ good moods, traces its origins to “Saturday Night Live,” sketch in 2004.
- Spam — This originated in a 1970 Monty Python Sketch.
- Going Commando — A special thanks to Joey from the TV series “Friends” for making this college slang word popular. A slang term dating back to 1974 is a euphemism for not having any underwear on.
What Are the Synonyms and Antonyms of Meh?
Below you will find synonyms, and antonyms of our word of the day, provided by Power Thesaurus.
Synonyms are words or phrases that have the same or nearly the same meaning. The synonyms of “meh” include:
- Not give two hoots
- Whoopee do
- Mediocre
- Of poor quality
- Run of the mill
- Nothing to write home about
- So-so
- Middle of the road
- I don’t give a pin
- That doesn’t impress me much
- So what
- Lackluster
- Big deal
- Not very good
- I don’t care
- Whatever
An antonym is a word or phrase with an opposite meaning. The antonyms of “meh” include:
- Excellent
- Let me guess
- Unsurpassed
- Great
- Dang
- Heavens to Betsy
- I feel surprised
- Unusual
- Unexcelled
- I would be honored
- Peculiar
- Mind blown
- Remarkable
- Oh my stars
- Unrivaled
How Can You Use Meh in a Sentence?
By now you know that the slang word “meh” can be used to show that you’re not interested in something or someone. So, how is it used in a sentence? Here are some usage examples:
“Meh, I’ll just try it again some other time. I can’t be bothered right now.”
“Honestly, this entire vacation has been a bit meh, I am ready to go home any time.”
“If you ask me, the lunches at school are just kinda meh.”
“Many people say we’re the ‘meh’ generation, but I feel otherwise.”
“I asked Beth if she was hungry, and all she said was ‘meh’.”
“Just being honest; that play was kinda meh.”
“A lot of teenagers use meh as a way of indicating that they are bored these days.”
“The movie was kinda meh — in other words, it’s not worth seeing in theaters.”
“Billy had been hyping up his new invention since last year, but after watching his big reveal, I can honestly say that’s it’s, well… meh.”
Recap
Meh can be used as either an interjection or adjective, meaning so-so, or used to express boredom. The term “meh,” used as either an adjective or interjection, relates to a lack of concern or indifference.
In other words, “meh” means not interested and comes as more of a groan than an actual word. We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to truly understand the meaning of “meh.”
If you’d like to discover additional words to enhance your existing vocabulary, don’t hesitate to explore our website, where you’ll also find helpful grammar tools, useful tips, and more.
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