Facetious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is joking or being sarcastic, often inappropriately or at a serious time.

• Her comments during the meeting were seen as facetious and offended several colleagues

Describes a disrespectful or careless attitude towards serious matters; carries a negative connotation.

• His flippant response to the serious question annoyed everyone in the room

Indicates something that lacks seriousness or importance; often seen as negative when focus should be on serious topics.

• Spending money on such frivolous things when you're in debt isn't wise

Denotes a humorously playful or joking nature, usually in a friendly and good-natured manner.

• Mark's jocular personality always makes him the life of the party

Used to describe something lighthearted, fun, and intended for amusement; usually friendly and positive.

• The children were in a playful mood, running and laughing throughout the playground