Frivolous Meaning
/ˈfɹɪv.ə.ləs/Definition, CEFR level C2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
adjSilly, especially at an inappropriate time or in an inappropriate manner; lacking a good reason for being, or for doing what one does; due to or moved by a whim or caprice.
adjSilly, especially at an inappropriate time or in an inappropriate manner; lacking a good reason for being, or for doing what one does; due to or moved by a caprice or whim.
Sentence Examples
The lawsuit was dismissed as frivolous.
Stop wasting time on frivolous activities.
CEFR Practice Quiz
His ____ joke made everyone laugh during the serious meeting.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The judge dismissed the ____ lawsuit, stating that it lacked any serious legal basis or merit.
Word Origin & History
From Latin frīvolus (“silly, empty, trifling, frivolous, worthless”), with the ending modified to match -ous.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"There is no easy definition for the phrase 'frivolous lawsuit,' but I imagine any claim for damages where the injuries are minimal or where the basis for the defendant's liability is hard to believe, might qualify as frivolous."
— 1996 August 31, Paul F. Waldner, President-Elect, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, “Viewpoints”, in Houston Chronicle, archived from the original on 16 Apr 2005:
Explore More C2 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
His ____ joke made everyone laugh during the serious meeting.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The judge dismissed the ____ lawsuit, stating that it lacked any serious legal basis or merit.