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Rigamarole: meaning, definitions and examples

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rigamarole

 

[ ˈrɪɡəˌmɔːroʊl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

complex procedure

Rigamarole refers to a lengthy and complicated procedure or set of instructions. It denotes a series of unimportant or tedious steps that must be followed to achieve something. Often used to imply that the process is unnecessarily convoluted or burdensome, it highlights the absurdity of overcomplicating simple tasks. Rigamarole can also describe a confusing or nonsensical situation, contributing to the frustration or confusion experienced by those involved.

Synonyms

complexity, formality, hassle, nonsense, procedure

Examples of usage

  • The rigamarole of filing taxes can be overwhelming.
  • She described the rigamarole involved in getting a new passport.
  • After going through the rigamarole of interviews, he finally got the job.
  • We had to deal with a lot of rigamarole just to book the venue for the event.

Translations

Translations of the word "rigamarole" in other languages:

🇵🇹 confusão

🇮🇳 जटिलता

🇩🇪 Umständlichkeit

🇮🇩 kerumitan

🇺🇦 заплутаність

🇵🇱 zawirowania

🇯🇵 ややこしさ

🇫🇷 bizarrerie

🇪🇸 enredo

🇹🇷 karışıklık

🇰🇷 복잡함

🇸🇦 تعقيد

🇨🇿 složitost

🇸🇰 zložitosti

🇨🇳 复杂

🇸🇮 zapletenost

🇮🇸 flækja

🇰🇿 күрделілік

🇬🇪 სირთულე

🇦🇿 qarışıqlıq

🇲🇽 confusión

Etymology

The word 'rigamarole' has an interesting etymology that traces back to the early 19th century, likely originating from a complex game of chance called 'ragman' or 'ragamuffin'. It derives from a combination of the Old French word 'ragoût' (to entice or lure) and the Middle English term 'merole', which means a riddle or trick. The evolution of the word reflects its association with convoluted and unnecessarily complicated situations. Initially, it carried a playful connotation, describing a series of convoluted actions, but over time, it has come to signify tediousness and absurdity in everyday scenarios. Its usage has grown through literature and colloquial speech, embodying a sense of frustration over complexity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,956, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.