Langimage
English

frivolity

|fri-vol-i-ty|

C1

🇺🇸

/frɪˈvɑːləti/

🇬🇧

/frɪˈvɒləti/

lack of seriousness

Etymology
Etymology Information

'frivolity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'frivolus,' where 'frivolus' meant 'silly or trifling.'

Historical Evolution

'frivolus' transformed into the Old French word 'frivole,' and eventually became the modern English word 'frivolity' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'silly or trifling,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lack of seriousness.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

lack of seriousness; lightheartedness.

The frivolity of the party was a welcome change from the usual seriousness.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a frivolous act or thing.

Buying that expensive hat was a frivolity she couldn't afford.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41