absurd

[ uhb-surd, -zurd ]

adjective

1. utterly or obviously senseless, illogical, or untrue; contrary to all reason or common sense; laughably foolish or false:

   an absurd explanation.

   Synonyms: nonsensical, ludicrous, silly, irrational

   Antonyms: sensible, logical

noun

1. the quality or condition of existing in a meaningless and irrational world.

absurd

/ əbˈsɜːd /

adjective

1. at variance with reason; manifestly false
2. ludicrous; ridiculous

noun

1. the absurd
   sometimes capital philosophy the conception of the world, esp in Existentialist thought, as neither designed nor predictable but irrational and meaningless

Derived Forms

• abˈsurdity, noun
• abˈsurdly, adverb

Other Words From

• ab·surd·ly adverb
• ab·surd·ness noun
• su·per·ab·surd adjective
• su·per·ab·surd·ly adverb
• su·per·ab·surd·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of absurd¹

First recorded in 1550–60, absurd is from the Latin word absurdus out of tune, uncouth, ridiculous. See ab-, surd

Word History and Origins

Origin of absurd¹

C16: via French from Latin absurdus dissonant, senseless, from ab- ¹(intensive) + surdus dull-sounding, indistinct

Synonym Study

Absurd, ridiculous, preposterous all mean inconsistent with reason or common sense. Absurd means utterly opposed to truth or reason: an absurd claim. Ridiculous implies that something is fit only to be laughed at, perhaps contemptuously: a ridiculous suggestion. Preposterous implies an extreme of foolishness: a preposterous proposal.

Example Sentences

Some scientists have dismissed some of Kennedy’s assertions as absurd and not based in science.

From Los Angeles Times

He added that Yoon's "irrational and absurd decision" to declare martial law had "overshadowed" what he described as the DPK's "many extreme actions" while in power.

From BBC

A spokesperson for the singer called the case an "absurd publicity stunt".

From BBC

Could the Bruins still force turnovers at an absurd rate?

From Los Angeles Times

“This is the way to bring back the hostages: by increasing the pressure and the costs for Hamas and its supporters, and defeating them, rather than, giving in to their absurd demands,” he added.

From New York Times

Related Words

• crazy
• foolish
• goofy
• illogical
• irrational
• laughable
• ludicrous
• nonsensical
• preposterous
• silly
• stupid
• unreasonable
• wacky