Friv"o*lous (?), a. [L. frivolus; prob. akin to friare to rub, crumble, E. friable: cf. F. frivole.]

1. Of little weight or importance; not worth notice; slight; as, a frivolous argument. Swift.

2. Given to trifling; marked with unbecoming levity; silly; interested especially in trifling matters.

His personal tastes were low and frivolous.

Syn. -- Trifling; trivial; slight; petty; worthless.

-- Friv"o*lous*ly, adv. -- Friv"o*lous*ness, n.

• silly; especially at an inappropriate time or in an inappropriate manner
       quotations
       *"There is no easy definition for the phrase frivolous lawsuit,' but I imagine any claim for damages where the injuries are minimal or where the basis for the defendant's liability is hard to believe, might qualify as frivolous." — Paul F. Waldner, President-Elect, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Viewpoints, Houston Chronicle, August 31, 1996 ()
       *"One of the major cost drivers in the delivery of health care are these junk and frivolous lawsuits." —
  
• Unimportant, not worth notice, especially in regards to an argument.