Definition of frivolous

The word "frivolous" has its roots in Middle French, where it was originally spelled "framerikan" and pronounced "frivolan." It derived from the Old French word "frivole," which meant "little value, vain, or useless." The original Latin word, "frivola," which meant "without weight," is believed to have been coined by the Roman playwright Plautus in the second century BCE. Its origin is not clear, but some theories suggest that it may have come from the Old Latin word "frividus," which meant "loose" or "careless." In Old French, "frivolan" was used to describe things that were worthless or unnecessary, as well as people who behaved in foolish or silly ways. It had a negative connotation, implying that the person or thing being referred to was unimportant, frivolous, or superficial. The word "frivolous" entered the English language in the late 14th century, with the meaning of "trivial, unimportant, or frivolous." Its spelling and pronunciation evolved over time, becoming "frivolous" in Middle English and "fridhōls" in Old English. Overall, the word "frivolous" has a long and fascinating history, with its origins in Latin and Middle French, and its evolution in Old English and Middle English. Its meaning has remained constant, however, as a term for things or people that are regarded as trivial, unimportant, or superficial.