Frivolous

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈfɹɪv.É™l.É™s/

Origin

From Latin frīvolus ("silly, empty, trifling, frivolous, worthless").

Full definition of frivolous

Adjective

1. Silly, especially at an inappropriate time or in an inappropriate manner.
• 1996, August 31, Paul F. Waldner, President-Elect, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Viewpoints, There is no easy definition for the phrase 'frivolous lawsuit,' but I imagine any claim for damages where the injuries are minimal or where the basis for the defendant's liability is hard to believe, might qualify as frivolous.
• Factcheck.org^{http://www.factcheck.org/article133.html}One of the major cost drivers in the delivery of health care are these junk and frivolous lawsuits.
2. Of little weight or importance; not worth notice; slight.

Derived terms

• frivolent
• frivolously
• frivolousness

Related terms

• frivol
• frivolity