First Known Use: 1542
Dictionary
preposterous
adjective pre·pos·ter·ous \pri-ˈpäs-t(ə-)rəs\
: very foolish or silly
Full Definition of PREPOSTEROUS
: contrary to nature, reason, or common sense : absurd
— pre·pos·ter·ous·ly adverb
— pre·pos·ter·ous·ness noun
See preposterous defined for English-language learners
See preposterous defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PREPOSTEROUS
Latin praeposterus, literally, in the wrong order, from prae- + posterus hinder, following — more at posterior
PREPOSTEROUSNESS Defined for Kids
preposterous
adjective pre·pos·ter·ous \pri-ˈpä-stə-rəs\
Definition of PREPOSTEROUS for Kids
: making little or no sense : foolish <a preposterous excuse>
Learn More About PREPOSTEROUS
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: prepostorPrevious Word in the Dictionary: prepossessionAll Words Near: preposterous
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up preposterous? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).