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

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

Russian comedian Andrei Bocharov, 59, made his name as a clean-cut "Mama's boy" playing an awkward character in an absurdist 1990s TV show about post-Soviet life.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

This is the beginning of “Bartleby, the Scrivener,” Melville’s absurdist tale of work, agency and nonconformity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

Having Albert Brooks as a best friend likely molded his style too; both were forerunners of a school of comedy that merged a naturalistic, conversational delivery with an absurdist sensibility.

From Salon • Dec. 21, 2025

After working as a journalist, Stoppard had a breakthrough when this absurdist romp debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 29, 2025