1. a philosophy or belief that human existence is meaningless and that the search for meaning in life is futile
Usage: philosophy
2. a style of drama or literature that emphasizes the meaninglessness of human existence through illogical situations and dialogue
Usage: literature; theater

Examples

• The playwright’s work reflected the principles of absurdism popular in the 1950s.
• Camus explored themes of absurdism in his novels and essays.
• The theater of absurdism challenged traditional dramatic conventions.
• Students studied absurdism as a response to the horrors of World War II.
• The absurdism movement influenced many modern writers and philosophers.
• Critics debated whether the play was truly an example of absurdism.