Facetious

/fəˈsiːʃəs/ adjective

Definition

Treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor; being flippant or not taking something seriously when seriousness is warranted. Joking when the situation calls for gravity.

Etymology

From Latin facetia, meaning 'jest' or 'witticism,' derived from facetus (witty, elegant). Originally described refined wit, but evolved to describe inappropriate or ill-timed humor, especially when seriousness is expected.

Kelly Says

Think 'facetious' = 'face-tious' - someone putting on a joking face when they should be serious! It's humor that shows multiple 'facets' but at the wrong time, like making jokes at a funeral.

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