Vocabulary in context
SAT Vocabulary Workbook
The closest companion to SATVocab for students who want guided lessons and written practice.
Check the workbook
Inane
Lacking sense or meaning; silly, foolish, or pointless.
adjectiveCheck this word before you leave
Pick the meaning. Keys A–D work too.
How well do you know this word now?
Your choice schedules the next review.
💡
Imagine This
The insane boy made many foolish jokes in class while the teacher was speaking.
🔊
Sounds Like
ih-NAYN
👀
Looks Like
Insane (crazy)
📝
Remember This
Related noun: 'inanity' (meaning silliness or emptiness of ideas). Be careful not to confuse 'inane' with 'insane'.
📚
Other Forms
inanitynoun
inanelyadverb
🔗
Connect With
absurdity, silliness, vacuity, nonsensicality, pointless remarks
📌
Note
Inane describes remarks, questions, or ideas that are silly or pointless; it is usually directed at speech rather than at people. Use sparingly in formal writing; it carries a strong negative connotation and can imply a lack of substance.
🧠
Study Deeper
Examples
- Her inane comments during the meeting wasted everyone's time.
- The comedian's inane jokes failed to amuse the audience.
Synonyms
sillyfoolishnonsensicalvacuousridiculous
Antonyms
sensiblemeaningfulsubstantive
Etymology
From Latin inanitas 'emptiness, void', from inanis 'empty'.
Mnemonic
Ideas Not Advancing, Not Entertaining (INANE): remember that inane thoughts are empty of substance.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Anachronism
nounA person, thing, or event placed in the wrong time in a story, artwork, or description; a chronological error or element that seems out of place in history.
Simplicity
nounThe quality of being simple, not elaborate or complicated; the ease with which something can be understood or done.
Jettison
verbTo throw goods overboard to lighten a ship; to discard or abandon something unnecessary.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Absurdity
nounThe quality or state of being wildly unreasonable, illogical, or ridiculous; something that is completely contrary to reason or common sense.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Study beyond this word
Turn vocabulary practice into a complete SAT plan
Add a workbook for repetition or the official guide for full-test context.
First-time test takers
Official SAT Guide
Official question styles, test structure, and print practice from the College Board.
Check the official guidePaid Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.