Lukewarm

/ˈlukwɔrm/ adjective

Definition

Slightly warm but not hot; lacking enthusiasm or energy; neither clearly supporting nor opposing something.

Etymology

From Middle English 'leuk' (lukewarm) which likely comes from Germanic roots possibly related to 'leak' or 'lick'. The exact origin is uncertain, but the meaning developed around the 1300s.

Kelly Says

Lukewarm is one of those perfect words where the meaning changed from purely physical (temperature) to emotional and political (lack of enthusiasm). The Bible uses it metaphorically—Jesus said the church of Laodicea was 'lukewarm' and he'd spit it out of his mouth!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.