absurdist

American  

[ab-sur-dist, -zur-] / æbˈsɜr dɪst, -ˈzɜr- /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or dealing with absurdism or the absurd.

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noun

1. an adherent of absurdism, especially a writer whose work is characterized by absurdist ideas.

Etymology

Origin of absurdist

First recorded in 1950–55; absurd + -ist

Explanation

In philosophy, art, and literature, something absurdist reflects the idea that life is ridiculous. You know you're watching an absurdist play if the characters exchange nonsensical dialogue and seem to forget who they are. People with absurdist philosophical beliefs think life has no real meaning, that life is completely absurd and irrational. Even if your personal philosophy doesn't line up with that idea, you probably appreciate the absurdist nature of certain situations. There's a lot of humor in absurdist literature like Samuel Beckett's play Waiting for Godot, in which two buffoonish men wait around for someone (they're not sure who) to show up. Absurdist has a Latin root that means "out of tune."

Example Sentences

"And that doesn't just come through the absurdist concepts that come within the frame, but it goes to the rhythm."

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

Each member has been given licence to express their own personal brand of humour, whether that's parody, musical or absurdist comedy.

From BBC • May 17, 2026

The adult-targeted block played a major role in mainstreaming anime, launched live-action comedy performers like Eric Andre, Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim, and resurrected old cartoon characters and titles with an absurdist twist.

From Salon • May 8, 2026

“The hippos are mimetic. It’s little bit of a reflection of society with dark, absurdist humor,” said Dedo Vabo’s Derek Doublin.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

The show uses absurdist comedy set within the cultural backdrop of urban adult life in the 1990s.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026