absurdism

noun

ab·​surd·​ism əb-ˈsər-ˌdi-zəm How to pronounce absurdism (audio) -ˈzər- How to pronounce absurdism (audio)
: 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
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The trailer highlights Riley’s signature blend of absurdism and agitprop aesthetic, but it’s anchored by a band of performers who seem not only fully locked into the movie’s wavelength but determined to hit their mark. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 30 Mar. 2026 Genre-blending in Latin music is nothing new, but timing and execution set them apart, along with an uncanny ability to turn internet absurdism into cool songs, all wrapped in sharp musicianship and rock ’n’ roll panache. Maria Nenet Barrios, Pitchfork, 19 Mar. 2026 Other artists have tried to tackle this melodrama by grounding us in specific characters’ perspectives, or by heightening the performances, but Fennell embraces the story’s fundamental absurdism by giving us absurd and often glorious images. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2026 Their trademark humor — that mix of cheeky absurdism and brotherly ribbing — is fully intact, recalling their ‘60s press conferences that won the hearts of a suspicious media. Jordan Runtagh, PEOPLE, 27 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for absurdism

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of absurdism was in 1946

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Cite this Entry

“Absurdism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absurdism. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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