adjective

frivolous

FRIV-uh-lus/ˈfrɪvələs/

Not serious or deserving much attention.

We set aside frivolous complaints and focus on real problems.

An adult wears a silly oversized party hat and blows bubbles during a serious planning meeting, trivial unserious behavior without text.

Etymology

frivolousLatinsilly, empty, trifling, worthless

Latin frivolus described things as silly, empty, or worthless. The modern adjective preserves that judgment of little value, applying it to behavior or ideas considered insufficiently serious to merit attention.

In context

TED2:31

fun can seem maybe frivolous in a very serious world, and the world is quite serious.

3 Elements of True Fun — and How to Have More of It | Catherine Price | TED

More examples

Their frivolous conversation keeps the mood light.
Buying another fancy hat seems frivolous when money is tight.
The judge dismisses the frivolous lawsuit.

Forms

frivolous · more frivolous · most frivolous

frivolity noun — Behavior or activity that lacks seriousness.

frivolously adverb — In a way that lacks seriousness.

Similar words

trivial: Emphasizes little importance rather than a lack of seriousness.
flippant: Describes disrespectfully casual speech or attitudes toward serious matters.
silly: Emphasizes foolishness or absurdity rather than lack of substance.