ad absurdum

adverb

ad ab·​sur·​dum
¦ad-əb-ˈsər-dəm
: to the point of absurdity
not slavishly imitate it ad absurdumFrank Weitenkampf

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ad absurdum was in 1656

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near ad absurdum

Cite this Entry

“Ad absurdum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ad%20absurdum. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!