frivolous

[ friv-uh-luhs ]

adjective

1. characterized by lack of seriousness or sense:

   frivolous conduct.

2. self-indulgently carefree; unconcerned about or lacking any serious purpose.
3. (of a person) given to trifling or undue levity:

   a frivolous, empty-headed person.

   Synonyms: puerile, childish, foolish, silly, idle

   Antonyms: serious

4. of little or no weight, worth, or importance; not worthy of serious notice:

   a frivolous suggestion.

   Synonyms: flimsy, trivial, paltry, petty, trifling, light

   Antonyms: weighty

frivolous

/ ˈfrɪvələs; frɪˈvɒlɪtɪ /

adjective

1. not serious or sensible in content, attitude, or behaviour; silly

   a frivolous remark

2. unworthy of serious or sensible treatment; unimportant

   frivolous details

Derived Forms

• ˈfrivolously, adverb
• ˈfrivolousness, noun

Other Words From

• friv·o·lous·ly adverb
• friv·o·lous·ness noun
• un·friv·o·lous adjective
• un·friv·o·lous·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of frivolous¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Latin frīvolus “worthless, trifling”; -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of frivolous¹

C15: from Latin frīvolus silly, worthless

Related Words

• foolish
• idiotic
• impractical
• petty
• pointless
• senseless