What does ludicrous mean?
Ludicrous describes something so absurd, exaggerated, or inappropriate that it provokes laughter, disbelief, or contempt. It is stronger and more expressive than “absurd”: calling an explanation ridiculous suggests that it is plainly implausible, while calling it ludicrous adds the sense that the explanation is comically excessive or absurd. The word can be used in serious criticism, as when a policy is described as ludicrous, or in playful descriptions of clothing, behavior, or performances. Its implication is not always that the subject is funny; a ludicrous decision may instead be shocking, unreasonable, or offensive. Ludicrous is especially useful when the absurdity itself deserves attention, combining judgment with a vivid sense of ridicule.
adjectiveSo absurd, exaggerated, or inappropriate that it provokes ridicule or disbelief. The word can describe something genuinely comic as well as something perceived as outrageous or ridiculous.
- Absurd, exaggerated, or inappropriate in a way that invites ridicule or disbelief.
"The excuse for arriving so late was ludicrous, and no one believed a word of it."
"The committee's explanation sounded ludicrous, but the situation was genuinely serious."
"He wore a ludicrous silver suit to the ceremony and somehow looked entirely comfortable."
What began as a reference to playfulness and games developed into a label for anything so exaggerated that it makes people laugh or cringe.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ludicrous come from?
English borrowed the adjective from Latin lūdīcōsus, a word meaning “playful,” “joking,” or connected with games and sport, ultimately related to lūdus, meaning “game” or “sport.” The word appeared in English in the early 17th century and gradually shifted toward its modern sense of something so exaggerated or absurd that it causes ridicule. Related English forms include “ludic,” while “ludology” and “ludography” continue the same association with games and play.
Related word forms
How ludicrous is actually used
Generally neutral in tone but strongly disapproving or mocking. It is often more emphatic than “absurd” and may suggest that something is both inappropriate and impossible to take seriously; it can also be used humorously. There is no major British–US difference in usage.
Easily confused with ludicrous
Ludicrous means absurd or ridiculous, whereas luminous means giving off light or shining brightly.