frivolous

[friv-uh-luhs]

adjective

1. characterized by lack of seriousness or sense.

   frivolous conduct.

2. self-indulgently carefree; unconcerned about or lacking any serious purpose.

3. (of a person) given to trifling or undue levity.

   a frivolous, empty-headed person.

   Synonyms: puerile, childish, foolish, silly, idle
   Antonyms: serious

4. of little or no weight, worth, or importance; not worthy of serious notice.

   a frivolous suggestion.

   Synonyms: flimsy, trivial, paltry, petty, trifling, light
   Antonyms: weighty

frivolous

/ ˈfrɪvələs, frɪˈvɒlɪtɪ /

adjective

1. not serious or sensible in content, attitude, or behaviour; silly

   a frivolous remark

2. unworthy of serious or sensible treatment; unimportant

   frivolous details

Other Word Forms

• frivolously adverb
• frivolousness noun
• unfrivolous adjective
• unfrivolousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of frivolous¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Latin frīvolus “worthless, trifling”; -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of frivolous¹

C15: from Latin frīvolus silly, worthless

Example Sentences

The lawsuit, considered frivolous by 1st Amendment experts, damaged the morale of the news division and likely led to the ouster of Owens in April.

From Los Angeles Times

Two of the senators called the lawsuits frivolous, while Bailey has argued the posts were protected by legislative immunity, as the senators were acting in their official capacity.

From Salon

He also blames backlogs on "fraudulent and frivolous" claims made under the Biden administration and says new legislation would increase asylum fees to reduce fraud.

From BBC

The film is teeming with viral headlines — serious, frivolous or false — jumbled together on computer screens screaming for attention in the same all-caps font.

From Los Angeles Times

The LAPD’s expansive system for investigating and disciplining officers has long faced criticism for failing to punish bad cop behavior, while some within the department complain of being inundated by frivolous complaints.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• foolish 
• idiotic 
• impractical 
• petty 
• pointless 
• senseless