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View synonyms for cockamamie

cockamamie

or cock·a·ma·my

[ kok-uh-mey-mee ]

adjective

, Slang.
  1. ridiculous, pointless, or nonsensical:

    full of wild schemes and cockamamie ideas.



cockamamie

/ ˌkɒkəˈmeɪmɪ /

adjective

  1. slang.
    ridiculous or nonsensical

    a cockamamie story

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of cockamamie1

Probably earlier than 1940–45, Americanism; 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.
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Word History and Origins

Origin of cockamamie1

C20: in an earlier sense: a paper transfer, prob. a variant of decalcomania
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Example Sentences

He likened the “cockamamie” security dog program to stop-and-frisk policies and claimed that the practice is “unethical” and provides a “less safe” experience for non-white fliers.

Rather than take on Cannon’s cockamamie assignment, Smith laid out accurate jury instructions based on the actual charges and law.

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.

I’m a mere critic, not a network pinhead, as David Letterman referred to executives who made these kinds of decisions, but that doesn’t mean I can’t dream up cockamamie ideas.

Ironically, the space aliens, ludicrous as they may be, are less insulting to the intelligence of the audience than the cockamamie developments on planet Earth.

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