cockamamie

word

Definition

Used to describe something that is silly, ridiculous, or obviously not true. Often said about ideas, stories, or explanations that seem impossible or foolish.

Usage & Nuances

'Cockamamie' is informal and somewhat old-fashioned, often used in American English when dismissing ideas as nonsense. Common collocations: 'cockamamie story', 'cockamamie idea', 'cockamamie excuse'. It emphasizes disbelief and is not used in formal writing.

Example Sentences

That's a cockamamie idea.

basic

He told me some cockamamie story about why he was late.

basic

Don't give me that cockamamie excuse.

basic

That whole plan sounds pretty cockamamie to me.

natural

Are you serious or is this just another cockamamie scheme?

natural

My uncle always comes up with these cockamamie inventions that never work.

natural