frivolously

[ friv-uh-luhs-lee ]

adverb

1. in a way that is characterized by lack of seriousness, good sense, or any worthwhile purpose:

   He had an income comfortable enough that he could spend some of it frivolously and extravagantly.

   I'm not asking the question frivolously; I am in earnest.

Other Words From

• un·friv·o·lous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of frivolously¹

frivolous ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Who else did the co-sponsor of the Discouraging Frivolous Lawsuits Act frivolously sue that year?

From Los Angeles Times

It’s a . . . creative metaphor for the dangers of having too much power and wielding it frivolously without fear of the consequences.

From Salon

“We can’t throw things to space frivolously and say, ‘Well, if it doesn’t work, let’s build another one.’”

From Science Magazine

“When you’re a kid frivolously playing with something you think is a toy, this is what happens.”

From New York Times

“It’s a lot of money that’s been put out there. I think it’s a good sign that it hasn’t been frivolously spent,” Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• casually
• delicately
• easily
• faintly
• freely
• gingerly
• mildly
• moderately
• quietly
• simply
• slightly
• softly
• sparsely
• subtly
• tenderly
• thinly