cockamamie
Americanadjective
adjective
Etymology
Origin of cockamamie
Probably earlier than 1940–45, in its original sense, “paper strip with an image which could be transferred to the skin when moistened,” apparently alteration of decalcomania; the current sense “ridiculous” probably by association with cock-and-bull story, poppycock, etc.
Explanation
Anything cockamamie is ridiculous and far-fetched. A cockamamie plan is not likely to work. This is a silly-sounding word for things that are silly, ludicrous, foolish, and impractical. Faking your own kidnapping to get out of a math test is a cockamamie plan. Wearing a fake mustache everywhere for no reason is cockamamie. Lots of comedies involve cockamamie plans and schemes, where the characters are trying to do something bizarre and unlikely to work. A cockamamie idea is the opposite of a practical, logical idea.
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.
Co-created by Robert Hull, Mr. Coben’s “I Will Find You” is based—like more than a dozen other adaptations of the author’s novels—on cockamamie contrivances and a curious tweak on the mystery thriller.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 18, 2026
Ylfa’s cockamamie hobby is ridiculous, but she’s no less dangerous than her husband, and Collette is the perfect extension of Ruffalo’s hyper-committed, hilarious performance.
From Salon ● Mar. 7, 2025
Rather than take on Cannon’s cockamamie assignment, Smith laid out accurate jury instructions based on the actual charges and law.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 4, 2024
Slowly, Gourley introduced his cockamamie mind and razor-sharp wit, learning how to joust with O’Brien and feeling freer to crack up the parade of famous guests.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 27, 2023
“I’m afraid we don’t have a cockamamie hog pen. I suppose we could build you one though, if you wanted.”
From "Ruby Holler" by Sharon Creech
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Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
