Emily Dickinson Lexicon

ME-DI-OC'RI-TY, n. [L. mediocritas, from mediocris, middling; medius, middle.]

1. A middle state or degree; a moderate degree or rate. A mediocrity of condition is most favorable to morals and happiness. A mediocrity of talents well employed will generally ensure respectability. Men of age seldom drive business home to the full period, but content themselves with a mediocrity of success. Bacon.
2. Moderation; temperance. We owe obedience to the law of reason, which teacheth mediocrity in meats and drinks. Hooker.