lusterless.

1. Lacking shine or brightness; often suggesting a dull surface, tired appearance, or drained energy.

2. Lacking liveliness, energy, brightness, or distinction in a person, performance, or passage.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• lusterless metal
• lusterless hair
• lusterless eyes
• lusterless performance
• lusterless expression
• lusterless prose

On the page

The lusterless brass caught no light from the weak kitchen bulb.

The lusterless speech could not disguise the mayor’s fatigue.

Usage notes

US spelling is “lusterless”; British English commonly uses “lustreless.” Figuratively, it can describe expression, energy, or performance. Sense 2: This figurative sense describes weak energy or appeal, not necessarily sadness or hopelessness.