vanilla

[vuh-nil-uh, -nel-uh] / vəˈnɪl ə, -ˈnɛl ə /

ADJECTIVE

simple, unadorned

Synonyms

STRONG

clean plain rustic

WEAK

austere elementary folksy homely humble inelaborate mid modest pure and simple uncluttered uncomplicated undecorated unelaborate unembellished unornamented unostentatious unpretentious your basic

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.

Even the vanilla scent near the sweet shop had faded.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

This year's offerings include the "Best in Show," the "Golden Cut Margarita," the "Maestro Martini" and "The Sequel," made with gold vanilla edible paint streaked along the side.

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

Which is why it’s worth upgrading the vanilla you use.

From Salon • Mar. 5, 2026

The last great decade for popular culture because everything since then has become quite vanilla.

From BBC • Feb. 4, 2026

I wonder if the vanilla and chocolate comment was a joke.

From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick

Vocabulary lists containing vanilla

White

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National Cookie Day

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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

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