outrageous
Outrageous (adj) means Shockingly excessive, unacceptable, or unjust. Example: “The price they charged for parking was outrageous.”
How to use outrageous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSo extreme it shocks or offends — whether that's a price, a claim, or an outfit.
Word forms
more outrageous comparative, most outrageous superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The price they charged for parking was _____.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman outrageus, built on outrage + -ous.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for outrageous
See all rhymes for outrageous →Frequently asked questions
What does “outrageous” mean?
The word “outrageous” means shockingly excessive, unacceptable, or unjust. In plain terms, so extreme it shocks or offends — whether that's a price, a claim, or an outfit.
How do you pronounce “outrageous”?
“Outrageous” is pronounced owt-RAYD-zhuhs (/aʊtˈɹeɪd͡ʒəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “outrageous” in a sentence?
Here is “outrageous” used in a sentence: “The price they charged for parking was outrageous.”
What is another word for “outrageous”?
Words with a similar meaning to “outrageous” include preposterous.
What part of speech is “outrageous”?
“Outrageous” is an adjective.
Where does the word “outrageous” come from?
The word “outrageous” comes from Anglo-Norman. From Anglo-Norman outrageus, built on outrage + -ous.
Is “outrageous” a common word?
“Outrageous” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “outrageous” have?
“Outrageous” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: shockingly excessive, unacceptable, or unjust.
What is the difference between outrageous and outraged?
Outrageous describes something that is shockingly excessive, unacceptable, or attention-grabbing, while outraged describes a person's feeling of anger in reaction to something. A price can be outrageous, and a customer who sees it can feel outraged.
Can outrageous be used as a compliment?
Yes. Beyond describing something unjust, outrageous can also describe behavior, fashion, or style that is bold and flamboyant in a way that draws attention, which is often meant positively, as in an outrageous performance.
Is outrageous a formal or informal word?
Outrageous works in both formal and informal contexts. It can describe a serious injustice in formal writing or an eye-catching outfit in casual conversation, with the surrounding tone signaling which sense is meant.
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