Absurd Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤪
Add to dictionary

absurd

[əbˈsɜːrd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a ridiculous manner

Contrary to all reason or common sense; laughably foolish or false.

Synonyms

illogical, preposterous, ridiculous, senseless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
absurd

Use in situations where something is extremely unreasonable or silly, often in a way that's humorous or funny.

  • It's absurd to think that cats can fly
  • The idea of building a snowman in the desert is completely absurd
ridiculous

Use when something is absurdly funny or silly, often invited mockery or humor.

  • Her suggestion that we swim across the Atlantic Ocean was ridiculous
  • He looked ridiculous wearing that oversized hat
preposterous

Use to describe something that is wildly unreasonable or utterly foolish, often used to emphasize disbelief.

  • The claim that aliens built the pyramids is preposterous
  • It's preposterous to suggest that she can run 100 miles in an hour
illogical

Use when referring to something that doesn't follow logical reasoning or makes no sense from a rational perspective.

  • His argument against climate change is completely illogical
  • It is illogical to expect to lose weight by eating more junk food
senseless

Use when something lacks meaning or purpose, often associated with actions or events that seem irrational.

  • The vandalism of the park was completely senseless
  • It is senseless to argue over such a trivial matter

Examples of usage

  • He made an absurd statement that the earth is flat.
  • It is absurd to think that pigs can fly.
Context #2 | Noun

a situation or thing that is absurd

A situation, thing, or idea that is extremely unreasonable, incongruous, or illogical.

Synonyms

absurdity, nonsense, ridiculousness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
absurd

When describing something that is extremely unreasonable or illogical.

  • The idea that reality TV shows can solve real-life problems is absurd
ridiculousness

To emphasize the extreme foolishness or ludicrousness of a situation or idea, typically used humorously.

  • The ridiculousness of wearing a winter coat in summer made everyone chuckle
absurdity

When focusing on the quality of being absurd, often in a situation or action.

  • The absurdity of the situation made everyone laugh despite the chaos
nonsense

When refuting a statement or idea that lacks sense or meaning, often used in arguments.

  • Her explanation was pure nonsense and did not make any sense

Examples of usage

  • The idea of a dog driving a car is an absurd.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'absurd'

The word 'absurd' originated from the Latin word 'absurdus', meaning 'out of tune'. It was first used in English in the mid-16th century. The concept of absurdity has been explored in philosophy, literature, and art, often as a way to challenge conventional thinking and question reality.


See also: absurdity, absurdly, absurdness.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,988 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.