How Do You Spell FRIVOLOUS?

Pronunciation: [fɹˈɪvələs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "frivolous" can be a bit tricky. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈfrɪvələs/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "i" in the second syllable is pronounced as a short "i" sound, while the "o" in the third syllable is pronounced as a short "uh" sound. The "ous" ending is pronounced as "us." Overall, the word has four syllables and is often used to describe something that is silly or unimportant.

FRIVOLOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "frivolous" is an adjective that refers to something that is characterized by a lack of seriousness or importance. It describes actions, ideas, or behaviors that are shallow, trivial, or lacking in substance. When something is frivolous, it often implies a sense of being excessive or unnecessary, not warranting the attention, time, or consideration it is receiving.

    In a broader sense, "frivolous" implies a lack of practicality or adherence to conventional standards of seriousness. It usually indicates things that may be regarded as unimportant or unworthy of serious consideration. For instance, frivolous activities could involve engaging in trivial gossip, spending excessive time on nonessential tasks, or pursuing unproductive entertainment with no significant or lasting value.

    Additionally, the term "frivolous" can be associated with an absence of rationality or logic, referring to actions or arguments that lack a sound basis and are based on irrelevant or superficial aspects. This can apply to legal cases as well, where the term is used to describe a legal claim or lawsuit that has no justifiable grounds and is brought forward with the intention to harass or waste resources.

    Overall, "frivolous" characterizes something that lacks seriousness, importance, practicality, or logical basis, often elevating trivia or semblances above substantial matters.

  2. Slight; trifling; of little weight or importance.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for FRIVOLOUS *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for FRIVOLOUS

Etymology of FRIVOLOUS

The word "frivolous" originated in the late 15th century and is derived from the Latin word "frivolus". The Latin term referred to something that lacked importance or was trifling. Over time, the meaning of "frivolous" developed in English to describe things or actions that are not serious, lacking in substance, or superficial.

Similar spelling words for FRIVOLOUS

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