What does lacklustre mean?
Lacklustre describes something that is dull, uninspiring, and deficient in energy or enthusiasm. It is especially common when discussing a performance, attempt, campaign, season, or other creative endeavour, where it suggests an absence of liveliness rather than necessarily complete failure. A lacklustre performance may be competent but unmemorable, while a lacklustre effort may appear half-hearted or lacking in determination. The word is mildly critical but less severe than words such as “dismal” or “appalling,” so it often communicates restrained disapproval. It can also apply more generally to places, objects, or experiences that seem flat or devoid of vitality. Although closely associated with British English, it is understood throughout the English-speaking world, with North Americans more commonly spelling it “lackluster.”
adjectiveLacking enthusiasm, energy, or vitality; dull and uninspiring.
- Lacking enthusiasm, energy, or vitality; dull and uninspiring.
"The team produced a lacklustre performance that failed to lift the crowd."
"The new manager has struggled to revive the club's lacklustre season."
"Her writing was careful but rather lacklustre, lacking the wit of her earlier work."
Lacklustre literally means lacking lustre—the shine or brilliance that gives a thing vividness.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lacklustre come from?
The word was formed in the early 19th century from “lack” and “lustre,” meaning brightness or polish. “Lustre” entered English through French from Latin roots associated with light and shining. The compound thus originally conveyed the absence of brilliance and, by extension, came to describe people and things lacking energy or enthusiasm.
Related word forms
How lacklustre is actually used
Often used to describe performances, efforts, campaigns, and other creative or competitive activities. The spelling without the final “u” is standard British usage; “lackluster” is the usual North American spelling.