- Absurd
- Absurd Ab*surd" ([a^]b*s[^u]rd"), a. [L. absurdus
harsh-sounding; ab + (prob) a derivative fr. a root svar to
sound; not connected with surd: cf. F. absurde. See
{Syringe}.]
Contrary to reason or propriety; obviously and flatly opposed
to manifest truth; inconsistent with the plain dictates of
common sense; logically contradictory; nonsensical;
ridiculous; as, an absurd person, an absurd opinion; an
absurd dream.
[1913 Webster]
This proffer is absurd and reasonless. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
'This phrase absurd to call a villain great. --Pope. --p. 9 [1913 Webster]
Syn: Foolish; irrational; ridiculous; preposterous; inconsistent; incongruous.
Usage: {Absurd}, {Irrational}, {Foolish}, {Preposterous}. Of these terms, irrational is the weakest, denoting that which is plainly inconsistent with the dictates of sound reason; as, an irrational course of life. Foolish rises higher, and implies either a perversion of that faculty, or an absolute weakness or fatuity of mind; as, foolish enterprises. Absurd rises still higher, denoting that which is plainly opposed to received notions of propriety and truth; as, an absurd man, project, opinion, story, argument, etc. Preposterous rises still higher, and supposes an absolute inversion in the order of things; or, in plain terms, a ``putting of the cart before the horse;'' as, a preposterous suggestion, preposterous conduct, a preposterous regulation or law. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.
