Absurd

/əbˈsɜːd/ · adjective

Meaning

Contrary to reason or propriety; obviously and flatly opposed to manifest truth; inconsistent with the plain dictates of common sense; logically contradictory; nonsensical; ridiculous; silly..

Definitions by Sense

1. Contrary to reason or propriety; obviously and flatly opposed to manifest truth; inconsistent with the plain dictates of common sense; logically contradictory; nonsensical; ridiculous; silly.
2. (obsolete) Inharmonious; dissonant.
3. Having no rational or orderly relationship to people's lives; meaningless; lacking order or value.
4. Dealing with absurdism.
5. (obsolete) An absurdity.
6. (philosophy, often preceded by the) The opposition between the human search for meaning in life and the inability to find any; the state or condition in which man exists in an irrational universe and his life has no meaning outside of his existence.

Example Sentences

This proffer is absurd and reasonless.

'Tis phrase absurd to call a villain great

“Perhaps it is because I have been excommunicated. It's absurd, but I feel like the Jackdaw of Rheims.” ¶ She winced and bowed her head. Each time that he spoke flippantly of the Church he caused her pain.

I know it sounds absurd / But please, tell me who I am

Adults have condemned them to live in what must seem like an absurd universe.

Synonyms for absurd

Antonyms for absurd

Related Words

Word Forms

• absurder
• more absurd
• absurdest
• most absurd
• absurds

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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