Crossword Genius

Boring name, boring idol (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

banal

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'boring' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives. Maybe you can see a link between them that I can't see?

'name boring idol' is the wordplay.
'name' becomes 'n' (common abbreviation e.g. on forms).
'boring' is an insertion indicator (some letters must 'bore' a hole into other letters).
'idol' becomes 'baal' (I've seen this in another clue).
'n' put within 'baal' is 'BANAL'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for banal that I've seen before include "'Trite, time-worn (5)'" , "'Dull, commonplace (5)'" , "Trite and insipid" , "Trite or fatuous" , "Everyday" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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