Ridicule (en. Ridiculous)

/ʁi.di.kyl/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Disdain directed at someone or something, often in a mocking manner.
His attitude was met with ridicule.
Son attitude a été accueillie avec du ridicule.
The ridiculous or absurd nature of a situation.
This situation is a pure example of absurdity.
Cette situation est un pur exemple de ridicule.
adjective
That which provokes laughter or contempt.
It’s a ridiculous behavior.
C’est un comportement ridicule.

Etymology

From Latin 'ridiculum', derived from 'ridere' which means 'to laugh'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to make a fool of oneself
to generate, provoke a laughable situation.
faire du ridicule
to make a big deal out of something ridiculous
to exaggerate the situation to show disdain.
en faire tout un ridicule

Related Words

to ridicule
To make someone or something appear ridiculous.
ridiculiser
ridiculous
That which is typical of the ridiculous.
ridiculeux
to mock
To express contempt or disdain through mockery.
moquer

Slang Meanings

It’s nonsense
His excuse was really nonsense, everyone laughed.
Son excuse était vraiment du bidon, tout le monde a ri.
It’s a joke
His project? It’s a joke!
Son projet ? C'est une blague !