German edit

Etymology edit

From Middle High German lecherlich. Equivalent to lachen +‎ -er- +‎ -lich.

Pronunciation edit

  • IPA(key): /ˈlɛçɐlɪç/
  • (file)

Adjective edit

lächerlich (strong nominative masculine singular lächerlicher, comparative lächerlicher, superlative am lächerlichsten)

  1. ridiculous, risible, laughable
    Synonym: lachhaft

Usage notes edit

  • The German word is also used as an intensifier, but only with things that the speaker considers either insignificant or unreasonable, not in an approving or praising tone (as is sometimes the case with ridiculous in informal English).

Declension edit

Derived terms edit

Further reading edit