absurdism

noun

ab·​surd·​ism əb-ˈsər-ˌdi-zəm  -ˈzər- 

: a philosophy based on the belief that the universe is irrational and meaningless and that the search for order brings the individual into conflict with the universe compare existentialism

Examples of absurdism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There was a Lynchian quality to the podcast, a fun-house-size absurdism that offset its overt offensiveness. —Brady Brickner-Wood, New Yorker, 13 Aug. 2025

Several designers in the Design Museum survey call attention to this impasse with absurdism. —Jonathon Keats, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025

So begins Phillip Howze’s experimental, often confounding play that draws on theatrical traditions of absurdism, burlesque and commedia dell’arte to satirize a slew of Western interlopers, from humanitarian nonprofits to predatory capitalists. —Emily McClanathan, Chicago Tribune, 24 July 2025

The idea for Hot Ones — layering an interview show with the absurdism of eating spicy chicken wings — was one of many ideas thrown at the wall, and Evans volunteered to host. —Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 27 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

absurd entry 1 + -ism (probably after French absurdisme)

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above