absurd
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //əbˈsɜːrd//
KK: /æbˈsɜrd/
adjective
Definition
Something that is extremely silly, unreasonable, or illogical, often to the point of being laughable or nonsensical.
Example
It was absurd to think that the world would end tomorrow without any warning.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more absurd
Superlative: most absurd
Conversation
Did you see that movie last night?
Yeah, it was so absurd that I couldn't stop laughing.
Right? I didn't expect it to be that funny.
Exactly! The plot twists were just completely absurd!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
foolish
ridiculous
ludicrous
Antonyms
reasonable
sensible
logical
noun
Definition
A situation or condition that is ridiculous, unreasonable, or nonsensical, often highlighting the lack of meaning or purpose in life.
Example
The philosopher discussed the absurd of human existence in his lecture.
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how absurd life can be sometimes?
Yeah, it's strange how we search for meaning in everything.
Exactly! It feels like we're just wandering through an absurd maze.
Root Explanation
Absurd is derived from the Latin 'absurdus' (meaning out of tune or incongruous), which is formed from 'ab-' (meaning away from) and 'surdus' (meaning deaf or dull). The word describes something that is away from reason or logic, hence nonsensical or ridiculous.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'away from' ('ab-') what makes sense or is logical ('surdus') — that's why absurd means something that doesn't make sense.
Visually Confused Words
unabsurd
surd
burd