What does ludicrously mean?
“Ludicrously” means that something occurs or exists in an absurd, exaggerated, or ridiculous way. It is especially useful when describing a degree so extreme that it appears amusing, implausible, or deserving of ridicule: a product may be “ludicrously expensive,” a penalty may be “ludicrously severe,” or a performer may wear “ludicrously impractical” clothing. Although the word is related in meaning to “ridiculously” and “absurdly,” it often carries a stronger humorous or dismissive tone. It can describe serious situations as well as comic ones, but in either case it signals that the degree involved seems disproportionate, unreasonable, or conspicuous. The word is informal in general use and can be particularly effective for emphasis, satire, and social commentary.
adverbIn a manner that is absurd, ridiculous, or exaggerated to the point of being amusing. It often expresses that something is far more extreme than is reasonable or believable.
- To an extent that is absurd, exaggerated, or capable of being regarded as ridiculous.
"The tiny portion was enough to make the bill ludicrously expensive."
"The delays left the company ludicrously unprepared for the launch."
"She wore a ludicrously oversized hat to the ceremony."
“Ludicrously” turns excess into comedy: what is ludicrously expensive may be overpriced, but calling it ridiculous is often part of the joke.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ludicrously come from?
The adverb comes from the adjective “ludicrous,” which entered English from French and ultimately derives from Latin roots associated with play, sport, or amusement. Its modern sense developed from the idea of something being so silly or exaggerated that it provokes laughter. The related word “ludic,” meaning playful or related to games, comes from the same broad Latin etymological family.
How ludicrously is actually used
The adverb is informal and frequently humorous or dismissive. It is often used with adjectives such as “expensive,” “small,” “high,” and “bad” to emphasize an extreme that seems absurd.
Easily confused with ludicrously
“Ludicrously” can imply that something is so exaggerated or absurd that it invites laughter, whereas “ridiculously” more often means extremely, sometimes without suggesting amusement.