What is ridiculous? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of ridiculous in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of ridiculous

ridiculousadjective
buồn cười, lố bịch, lố lăng
/rɪˈdɪkjʊləs/

Definition & pronunciation of <strong>ridiculous</strong>

Where does the word ridiculous come from?

The word "ridiculous" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the words "risus," meaning laughter or mockery, and "diculous," meaning deserving of or being worthy of. In the 15th century, the term "ridiculus" emerged in Latin, meaning "causing laughter" or "deserving ridicule." The word "ridiculous" was later adopted into Middle English from Old French, "ridicole," around the 14th century. By the 15th century, the term had taken on a negative connotation, implying something absurd, silly, or foolish. Over time, the spelling and meaning of the word have evolved, but its original connection to laughter and mockery remains. Today, "ridiculous" is used to describe something that is absurd, foolish, or laughable, often in a playful or humorous sense.

Vocabulary summary ridiculous

type adjective

meaning funny, ridiculous, ridiculous, absurd

example a ridiculous man: a ridiculous person

example a ridiculous speech: a ridiculous speech

Example of vocabulary ridiculousnamespace

The idea of wearing a tuxedo to a beach party is utterly ridiculous.
Watching a cat chase its tail for thirty minutes straight is nothing short of ridiculous.
The price tag on those shoes is simply ridiculous.
The scene where the main character dances in public wearing a chicken costume was absolutely ridiculous.
Claiming to have seen a unicorn in the park is downright ridiculous.