Nonsense Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nonsense

[ˈnɒnsəns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

talk

Spoken or written words that have no meaning or make no sense. Nonsense can also refer to foolish or absurd behavior.

Synonyms

balderdash, drivel, gibberish.

Examples of usage

  • Stop talking nonsense and focus on the task at hand.
  • The politician's speech was full of nonsense and empty promises.
Context #2 | Noun

idea

An idea, statement, or belief that is absurd, illogical, or false.

Synonyms

absurd, illogical, nonsensical.

Examples of usage

  • The conspiracy theory was pure nonsense.
  • His explanation for being late was nothing but nonsense.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Lewis Carroll's 'Jabberwocky' is a famous poem filled with nonsense words that create a whimsical yet compelling narrative.
  • The character of the Mad Hatter in 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' often speaks in nonsense, highlighting the absurdity of certain situations.
  • Nonsense verse is a popular genre that entertains readers with playful language and imaginative scenarios.

Psychology

  • Nonsense can stimulate creativity by forcing the brain to make unusual connections between unrelated ideas.
  • Studies show that encountering nonsense can help improve cognitive flexibility, encouraging one to think outside the box.
  • Embracing nonsense can reduce stress, as it often invokes a sense of playfulness and laughter.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows like 'Sesame Street' often incorporate nonsense to engage children's imaginations and promote language skills.
  • Funny internet memes sometimes rely on nonsensical phrases or images to create humor and encourage sharing.
  • Nonsense songs, like 'The Song That Never Ends,' capture attention and create a sense of joy through repetitive silliness.

Philosophy

  • Some philosophers, including Ludwig Wittgenstein, considered certain statements nonsense due to a lack of meaningful content.
  • Nonsense can challenge societal norms by questioning what is considered logical or rational.
  • The concept of nonsense often appears in discussions about language's limits, emphasizing how meaning is constructed socially.

Origin of 'nonsense'

Main points about word origin

  • The word came from the Latin roots 'non' meaning 'not' and 'sensus' meaning 'feeling or sense'.
  • It first appeared in English in the 16th century, used to describe things that couldn't be understood.
  • The word has been used in various forms of literature and speech to dismiss ideas that lack logic.

The word 'nonsense' originated in the late 18th century, from the combination of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'sense'. It has been used to describe meaningless or illogical speech or behavior ever since.


See also: desensitized, hypersensitivity, insensibility, insensible, insensitive, nonsensical, nonsensically, sensation, sensational, sensations, sense, senseless, senselessly, sensibility, sensible, sensibly, sensitive, sensitivity, sensor, sensory, sensual, sensuous.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,686 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.