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ORDINARY

o-r-d-i-n-a-r-y

Adjective
Basic Level
8 Letters

Quick Definition

ORDINARY means regular, normal, or commonplace, lacking special or distinctive features, representing the typical or expected standard.

Scrabble Points

12

Points in Scrabble

Base tile values • No multipliers applied

Definition & Meaning

ORDINARY describes something that is regular, normal, or commonplace - conforming to the expected standard without exceptional or distinctive qualities. It represents the baseline of everyday experience, neither remarkable nor unusual. While sometimes carrying negative connotations of being unremarkable, ordinary also represents stability, predictability, and the comfortable rhythms of daily life. The extraordinary is defined in contrast to the ordinary, making it a fundamental concept for understanding deviation and exception.Contexts of ordinary:

  • Daily life: Routine activities and common experiences
  • Standards: Meeting but not exceeding normal expectations
  • Statistics: Falling within typical ranges
  • Social: Conforming to common behaviors and norms
  • Etymology & Origin

    The word ordinary comes from Latin ordinarius meaning "regular, usual, orderly," from ordo (genitive ordinis) meaning "row, rank, series, arrangement." It entered English in the 14th century through Old French ordinarie. Initially used in ecclesiastical contexts (ordinary clergy), it broadened to mean "common" by the 15th century. The sense of "plain, not special" developed in the 16th century. The noun form (meaning a tavern serving regular meals) is now largely obsolete.

    Did You Know?

    The book "Ordinary People" won the 1980 Academy Award for Best Picture

    In heraldry, "ordinaries" are basic geometric charges on coats of arms

    Studies show people consistently undervalue ordinary positive experiences

    The phrase "ordinary shares" refers to common stock with standard voting rights

    Usage Examples

    "What seemed like an ordinary day turned extraordinary when she received the acceptance letter."

    "He preferred the ordinary comforts of home to exotic travel destinations."

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    Letter Analysis

    Letter Distribution

    O (1 pts)
    1x
    R (1 pts)
    2x
    D (2 pts)
    1x
    I (1 pts)
    1x
    N (1 pts)
    1x
    A (1 pts)
    1x
    Y (4 pts)
    1x

    Total base points: 12 (Scrabble)

    Vowels: 3 | Consonants: 5

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