garden variety: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Garden variety is an idiomatic expression that refers to something ordinary, common, or typical. It can be used to describe a person, thing, or event that lacks any outstanding or distinctive qualities. The phrase draws inspiration from the world of gardening, where "garden variety" is used to describe plants commonly found and widely available. This connection with horticulture has contributed to the idiom's enduring popularity.

The idiom garden variety has been used in a variety of contexts, both literal and figurative. In its literal sense, it refers to plants or crops commonly grown in gardens. For example, a tomato plant can be described as garden variety if it is a common, widely cultivated variety. This literal usage has served as the foundation for the metaphorical sense of the idiom.

In the figurative sense, garden variety has been applied to a wide range of subjects, from objects and situations to people and characteristics. It is often used to describe ordinary or average individuals, sometimes in a slightly derogatory manner. For instance, one might refer to a mediocre actor as a garden variety performer, highlighting their lack of exceptional talent or uniqueness.

The idiom is not limited to individuals; it can also be used to describe things or events that are unremarkable or lacking in special qualities. For example, a minor traffic accident can be described as a garden variety fender-bender, emphasizing its insignificance in the grand scheme of things.

The versatility of the idiom garden variety lies in its ability to encompass a wide range of situations and objects while conveying a sense of mediocrity or ordinariness. It continues to be a go-to expression when one wants to convey the notion of something being ordinary or lacking special qualities. Its simplicity and directness make it a powerful tool for conveying a specific shade of meaning.

The idiom garden variety has a long history and remains a prominent fixture in the English language. Its metaphorical meaning, derived from horticulture, refers to something common or ordinary. It can be used to describe people, things, or events that lack special qualities or distinctiveness. The enduring popularity of this idiom is a testament to its versatility and ability to capture the essence of the ordinary in a concise and impactful manner.

The related idiom "common-and-garden" shares a similar meaning to garden variety. It is often used to describe something ordinary, plain, or unexceptional. For example, one might refer to a common-and-garden car to emphasize its lack of special features or extravagance. This idiom reinforces the notion of something being ordinary or unremarkable.

An additional related idiom, "common or garden variety," further emphasizes the idea of something being ordinary or typical. It is often used in the same way as garden variety to describe people, things, or events lacking distinctive qualities. For instance, one might refer to a common or garden variety problem to imply that it is a usual or expected issue.

The idiom "average joe" is another phrase that shares a similar meaning with garden variety. It is often used to refer to an ordinary, average, or typical person. The term "Joe" in this context is a generic name given to represent an everyday person. When used, it conveys the idea of someone who is not exceptional or extraordinary.

Similarly, the idiom "Joe Average" is also used to describe an ordinary or average person. It is a variation of the "average Joe" expression. Both idioms are used to highlight the idea of someone being unremarkable or typical.

Lastly, the idiom "any old thing" is another phrase that relates to garden variety. It is often used to refer to something that is not particular or specific, but rather any random or unimportant thing. This idiom reinforces the notion of something lacking uniqueness or special qualities.