# tasteless

/ˈteɪstɫəs/ (US) · /tˈeɪstləs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tasteless
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

having no flavor at all, or showing very poor judgment and being offensive. You use it for food that is boring or for jokes that are rude.

For teachers: lacking flavor or character; alternatively, showing a lack of aesthetic judgment or social propriety. Often used to describe food, decor, or behavior that is considered offensive or crude.

## Examples

- The hospital food was completely tasteless.
- The comedian's tasteless jokes about the tragedy caused many audience members to leave the theater in protest.
- While the interior of the mansion was grand, the owner's choice of neon furniture was widely criticized as tasteless and gaudy.

## Usage notes

- Can be used both literally for physical sensation and figuratively for social behavior.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.