adj
laughable
LAH-fuhbl
Laughable (adj) means So absurd or badly done that it deserves mockery rather than serious attention. Example: “His excuse for being late was laughable.”
adj
1
So absurd or badly done that it deserves mockery rather than serious attention.
"His excuse for being late was laughable."
"The special effects in the low-budget film were laughable."
How to use laughable
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRidiculous or not to be taken seriously.
Common mistake
Usually used negatively — calling something "laughable" is an insult, not a compliment about its humor.
Common pairings
a laughable excuse
laughably bad
laughable attempt
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more laughable
- Superlative
- most laughable
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His excuse for being late was _____.
Etymology
From laugh plus the suffix -able.
Synonyms
View more →
preposterous
comic
idiotic
amusing
nonsensical
mirthful
ludicrous
cockeyed
derisory
absurd
comical
funny
Related words
Rhymes for laughable
See all rhymes for laughable →Frequently asked questions
What does “laughable” mean?
The word “laughable” means so absurd or badly done that it deserves mockery rather than serious attention. In plain terms, ridiculous or not to be taken seriously.
How do you pronounce “laughable”?
“Laughable” is pronounced LAH-fuhbl (/ˈlæfəbl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “laughable” in a sentence?
Here is “laughable” used in a sentence: “His excuse for being late was laughable.”
What part of speech is “laughable”?
“Laughable” is an adjective.
