monotony

[muh-not-n-ee] / məˈnɒt n i /

NOUN

boredom; sameness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

tedium

STRONG

colorlessness continuance continuity dreariness dryness dullness ennui evenness flatness humdrum identicalness invariability likeness monotone oneness repetitiousness repetitiveness routine similarity tediousness tiresomeness unchangeableness uniformity

WEAK

equability levelness monotonousness same old thing wearisomeness

Antonyms

STRONG

break difference dissimilarity excitement liveliness stoppage unlikeness

WEAK

change color variability versatility

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The couple say prison life has returned to its normal monotony after the intense fear they experienced during the Israel-US war with Iran.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

While we all need periodic reminders that pierce through the monotony and horrors of the day, awe of nature and our fragile existence being paramount, we also need reminders that a better future is possible.

From Salon • Apr. 7, 2026

For John Winston Isidro, life aboard his VLCC, or Very Large Crude Carrier, has been marked by equal parts monotony and precaution since his ship began playing the waiting game.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

“Life is life-ing” is the bills and the monotony and the traffic and the family — it’s all the things.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

The road stretched out for miles and miles without a town or intersection to break up the monotony of the scenery.

From "The Red Umbrella" by Christina Gonzalez

Vocabulary lists containing monotony

The Things They Carried

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Alchemist

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The Stranger

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!