lollapalooza

[ lol-uh-puh-loo-zuh ]

noun

, Slang.

1. an extraordinary or unusual thing, person, or event; an exceptional example or instance.

lollapalooza

/ ˌlɒləpəˈluːzə /

noun

1. slang.
   something excellent

Word History and Origins

Origin of lollapalooza¹

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of lollapalooza¹

origin unknown

Example Sentences

Home viewing won’t replace the experience of seeing Woo’s landmark action lollapaloozas in a theater.

From Los Angeles Times

The sharpened debate is sure to be on display at the economic lollapalooza that opens Wednesday in Washington — otherwise known as the annual spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

From New York Times

More About Lollapalooza

Where does lollapalooza come from?

Lollapalooza is an Americanism dating to the early 1900s (and name of a rock music festival starting in the 1990s). Its spelling has changed over time, so you might encounter such forms as lallapaloosa, lolapaloosa, and lallapalooza, in older written works.

Where does it come from? That’s unknown, but it is probably just a whimsical formation—perfect for referring to something extraordinary.

Many more amusing Americanisms await in our slideshow “These Wacky Words Originated In The USA.”

Did you know … ?

As noted above, Lollapalooza is also the name of an annual rock festival held in Chicago, Illinois. The name of the festival was apparently chosen after its founder, Perry Farrell, heard the word used in a film starring the comedy trio the Three Stooges. Farrell owns the trademark on the word Lollapalooza.

There isn’t an exact synonym for lollapalooza—and perhaps there shouldn’t be! But, if you need something shorter or easier to spell, try marvel, wonderment, spectacle, or paragon.

While you’re at it, why not behold some synonyms for wonder at Thesaurus.com too?