frivolity

[fri-vol-i-tee]

noun

plural

frivolities 

1. the quality or state of being frivolous.

   the frivolity of Mardi Gras.

   Synonyms: foolishness, levity, abandon, triviality, irresponsibility, self-indulgence

2. a frivolous act or thing.

   It was a frivolity he had a hard time living down.

Word History and Origins

Origin of frivolity¹

From the French word frivolité, dating back to 1790–1800. See frivolous, -ity

Example Sentences

The navy did not want its midshipmen wasting their time on such frivolities.

From BBC

Unquestioning fealty often excuses autocratic leaders from frivolities such as laws, constitutional constraints or any checks on power: The leader is perceived not to be working for his own gain, but for the shining future.

From Salon

Guiraudie celebrates the frivolity of a steamy glance or a leering gaze, and “Misericordia” is no different, which is precisely why it’s such an exciting venture in the realm of contemporary queer filmmaking.

From Salon

Pirates of the Caribbean shows the ways in which greed and gluttony turn us into caricatures, while the Haunted Mansion finds frivolity in the afterlife, reminding us to enjoy our time while we’re here.

From Los Angeles Times

“Frying the small fish” is a term Delta uses to acknowledge the campy frivolity of some of the topics on her show.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• levity