inanities
|i-na-ni-ties|
/ɪˈnænɪtiz/
(inanity)
emptiness; lack of sense
Etymology
'inanity' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'inānĭtas', where 'inānus' meant 'empty' or 'void'.
'inanity' changed from Latin 'inānĭtas' into Medieval/Old French forms (e.g. 'inanité') and then entered Middle English as 'inanite' before becoming the modern English 'inanity'.
Initially, it meant 'emptiness' or 'voidness' (literally 'the state of being empty'), but over time it evolved to include the sense of 'lack of intelligence or sense' and 'foolish or pointless remarks'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'inanity': lack of sense, significance, or ideas; foolishness or silliness.
The conversation consisted mainly of inanities that got everyone laughing.
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Noun 2
trivial or pointless remarks, ideas, or activities; things that lack substance or value.
She was tired of the inanities of small talk and steered the meeting toward real issues.
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Last updated: 2025/09/10 17:55