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frivolous

/ˈfɹɪv.əl.əs/adjective

Silly and lacking seriousness, especially at a time or in a setting that calls for it.

Example sentences

  • “The judge dismissed the lawsuit as frivolous.”
  • “He wasted his savings on frivolous purchases like designer sneakers.”

In law it has real teeth: a frivolous lawsuit is one with no serious legal merit, and courts can punish filing one. Its opposite is 'serious' or 'weighty'.

Synonyms for frivolous

Antonyms

  • serious
  • important
  • weighty

Related words

earnestMeaning what you say and treating things seriously, with no joking or pretending.frightA sudden, sharp burst of fear brought on by the unexpected appearance of danger, usually passing quickly.frustrateTo upset or annoy someone by blocking their plans or keeping them from getting what they want.frustratedFeeling annoyed or discouraged because something has blocked your plans or wishes.fraughtFull of something unpleasant, such as danger, problems, or risk.furiousExtremely angry, or wild and forceful in movement.