Definition

The quality or state of being ridiculous or unreasonable, often in a way that is laughable or nonsensical.

Example

The absurdness of the situation made everyone laugh.

Conversation

Did you see that movie last night?

Yeah, it was really strange, almost an absurdness to the plot.

I know, right? It felt like they were trying too hard to be funny.

Exactly! Sometimes the absurdness just doesn't work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Absurdness is formed from "absurdus" (from Latin, meaning out of tune or incongruous) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word describes the state of being absurd or ridiculous.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'out of tune' or doesn't make sense ('absurdus') — that's why 'absurdness' refers to the quality of being absurd.

Visually Confused Words