Preposterous: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'praeposterus,' which means 'placed backward,' implying things are mixed up.
• In the 17th century, 'preposterous' was used to describe ideas or suggestions considered absurd or nonsensical.

Literature

• In Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,' many characters and scenarios are preposterous, creating a sense of whimsical absurdity.
• The use of preposterous elements in Shakespeare’s comedies often highlights the foolishness of certain societal norms and behaviors.

Pop Culture

• Movies like 'Dumb and Dumber' often feature preposterous situations that are played for comedic effect.
• The term is frequently used in satire and comedy to critique political situations or decisions that seem illogical.

Psychology

• People are often drawn to preposterous ideas or conspiracy theories, possibly due to a need for excitement or disbelief in the mundane.
• Cognitive dissonance can occur when individuals confront preposterous claims that conflict with their beliefs or knowledge.

Science

• In scientific discourse, preposterous hypotheses are those that lack evidence and are dismissed in favor of more reasonable theories.
• Historical examples show preposterous claims about science, like the idea that heavier objects fall faster than lighter ones, were corrected over time.

With rank #16,347, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 16344 awkwardly
• 16345 filial
• 16346 fanaticism
• 16347 preposterous
• 16348 pointers
• 16349 dilapidated
• 16350 manoeuvre
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