absurd etymology

Etymology

  • Latin: absurdus, meaning "out of tune, discordant"
  • Possibly from the Proto-Indo-European root *ser-, meaning "to flow"

Meaning

  • Ridiculous, illogical, or unfounded
  • Contrary to reason or common sense
  • Grotesque or bizarre

Origin

The Latin word absurdus originally meant "out of tune" or "discordant." It was used to describe something that was inappropriate or out of place. Over time, the word came to be used more broadly to describe anything that was ridiculous, illogical, or absurd.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, the word absurd began to be used in English to describe something that was contrary to reason or common sense. It was also used to describe something that was grotesque or bizarre.

Today, the word absurd is used in a variety of contexts. It can be used to describe something that is funny, ridiculous, or illogical. It can also be used to describe something that is grotesque or bizarre.

absurd relate terms

  • susurration

    Etymology From Late Latin susurratiō n from Latin susurrāre to whisper Meaning

  • absurdity

    Etymology The word absurdity comes from the Latin word absurdus which means out of

  • absurd

    Etymology Latin absurdus meaning out of tune discordant Possibly from the Proto Ind

  • dizzy

    Etymology Old English dysig cognate with Old Norse dys Dutch duizelig German diesig

  • preposterous

    Etymology The word preposterous comes from the Latin phrase prae posterus meaning i

  • paradox

    Etymology The word paradox originates from the Greek language para παρά mea

  • inconvenient

    Etymology The word inconvenient is derived from the Latin prefix in meaning not

  • credulity

    Etymology From Latin credulitas from credere to believe tas noun suffix Cogna

  • irrational

    Etymology The word irrational is derived from two Latin words In meaning not or

  • gallimaufry

    Etymology The word gallimaufry originated from the Old French word gallimafrée whi

  • situation

    Etymology Latin situātiō n Origin situation position placement Meaning A

  • sacred

    Etymology The word sacred originates from the Latin word sacer which means holy