What does outlandish mean?
Outlandish is an adjective for something strikingly unusual, extravagant, strange, or contrary to ordinary expectations. It is especially useful when describing claims, behavior, designs, or ideas that seem so exaggerated that they border on ridiculous. The word can carry criticism, as in “an outlandish accusation,” but it can also be playful or admiring, as when describing extravagant clothing or a wildly inventive production. Outlandish is similar to bizarre and unconventional, though it often implies a degree of flamboyance or excess that those words do not necessarily suggest. Its standard adverb is outlandishly, and the related noun outlandishness is also established, though less common in everyday use. The word is understood throughout the English-speaking world and is not restricted to either British or American usage.
adjectiveVery strange, unusual, or exaggerated, especially in a way that seems ridiculous or improbable. It can also describe something conspicuously unconventional or extravagant.
- Unconventional, strange, or exaggerated in a way that seems ridiculous or remarkable.
- Foreign or unusual in appearance or character; this sense is now rare or archaic.
"The designer created an outlandish costume that was far too spectacular for an ordinary evening out."
"His claim that the company had invented a time machine seemed outlandish at first."
"The couple wore matching, brightly colored suits to their deliberately outlandish wedding."
Outlandish once meant “foreign,” but its meaning evolved into everything from bizarre to wonderfully excessive.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does outlandish come from?
Outlandish was formed in the early 17th century from out and landish, a term associated with foreign or outlying lands. Its early sense referred to something foreign or foreign-looking, while the modern sense of being strange, exaggerated, or unconventional developed during the 19th century. Related formations include landish, outland, and the underlying element land.
Related word forms
How outlandish is actually used
The word is common in informal and semi-formal English. It often conveys amused surprise or disapproval, depending on context, and can describe anything from absurd ideas to flamboyant fashion.
Easily confused with outlandish
Outland refers to a region beyond the settled or familiar part of a country, whereas outlandish describes something strange, exaggerated, or unconventional.