Rabelaisian

adjective

1
: of, relating to, or characteristic of Rabelais or his works
2
: marked by gross robust humor, extravagance of caricature, or bold naturalism

Examples of Rabelaisian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Reviews were again positive, though some critics took issue with the book’s truthfulness, not to mention its Rabelaisian celebration of alcohol. — Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026 But the Rabelaisian playwright and novelist developed a deep interest in French literature, nourished by a transformative period spent living in post-war Paris. — Literary Hub, 2 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Rabelaisian was in 1817

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Cite this Entry

“Rabelaisian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Rabelaisian. Accessed 25 Sep. 2026.

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