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RIDICULOUS

Pronunciation (US):

Dictionary entry overview: What does ridiculous mean?

• RIDICULOUS (adjective)
The adjective RIDICULOUS has 3 senses:

1. inspiring scornful pity
2. incongruous;inviting ridicule
3. broadly or extravagantly humorous; resembling farce

Familiarity information: RIDICULOUS used as an adjective is uncommon.

Dictionary entry details

• RIDICULOUS (adjective)

Sense 1

ridiculous ^{[BACK TO TOP]}

Meaning:

Inspiring scornful pity

Synonyms:

ridiculous; pathetic; silly

Context example:

how silly an ardent and unsuccessful wooer can be especially if he is getting on in years

Similar:

undignified (lacking dignity)

Sense 2

ridiculous ^{[BACK TO TOP]}

Meaning:

Incongruous;inviting ridicule

Synonyms:

preposterous; nonsensical; derisory; laughable; ludicrous; idiotic; cockeyed; absurd; ridiculous

Context examples:

the absurd excuse that the dog ate his homework / that's a cockeyed idea / ask a nonsensical question and get a nonsensical answer / a contribution so small as to be laughable / it is ludicrous to call a cottage a mansion / a preposterous attempt to turn back the pages of history / her conceited assumption of universal interest in her rather dull children was ridiculous

Similar:

foolish (devoid of good sense or judgment)

Sense 3

ridiculous ^{[BACK TO TOP]}

Meaning:

Broadly or extravagantly humorous; resembling farce

Synonyms:

farcical; ludicrous; ridiculous

Context examples:

the wild farcical exuberance of a clown / ludicrous green hair

Similar:

humorous; humourous (full of or characterized by humor)

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