absurdist

adjective

ab·​surd·​ist əb-ˈsər-dist How to pronounce absurdist (audio)
-ˈzər-
: of, relating to, or characterized by the absurd or by absurdism : absurd
absurdist literature
an absurdist sense of humor
absurdist noun

Examples of absurdist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But Ackman’s koan is also correct in a more absurdist way. — Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 20 June 2026 The premise of the story—the pig lab—seems absurdist or surreal but is actually grounded in reality. — Deborah Treisman, New Yorker, 28 June 2026 Their pursuit leads them down a highly unusual path with no easy answers, and Bong masterfully balances tonal shifts from bleak tragedy to absurdist humor to highlight why the case remains so compelling. — Eric Farwell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026 Friedland, a comedian and former co-host of the podcast Cum Town, launched the show in 2022 as an absurdist riff on late-night television. — Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for absurdist

Word History

Etymology

absurd entry 1 + -ist entry 1 (probably after French absurdiste)

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of absurdist was in 1946

Browse Nearby Words

absurdism
absurdist
absurdity
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Absurdist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absurdist. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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