Cockamamy

/ˈkɒkəˌmeɪmi/ adjective

Definition

Absurd, ridiculous, or deliberately implausible; also used to describe something that is overly complicated or nonsensical.

Etymology

Derived from earlier variants like 'cockamamie' or 'cockamamy,' possibly from Dutch 'kaka' (excrement) or from the earlier 'cock-and-bull' (a nonsensical story). American slang from the early 20th century.

Kelly Says

Nobody knows for certain where 'cockamamy' comes from—it might be from Dutch, it might be from 'cock-and-bull story,' but what's cool is that it captured something we still need: a word for 'absurdly ridiculous' that sounds as silly as the thing it describes!

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