Quick answer
Nugatory means of little value, importance, or practical effect. It is usually pronounced , and today it is still readable to modern audiences, even if it sounds more deliberate than everyday speech.
Word page
Nugatory
Nugatory means of little value, importance, or practical effect. It belongs to odd objects and contraptions and works best in describing tools, curiosities, and mysterious things with personality. It is still understandable today, but it usually sounds more vivid and deliberate than ordinary modern vocabulary.
At a glance
objectscontraptionscuriosities
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
In plain English, nugatory refers to of little value, importance, or practical effect. It is most useful when a plain label would tell the truth but miss the tone, flavor, or comic edge.
Why this word feels absurd
Nugatory feels absurd because it has more texture than the plain alternative, giving the idea an extra bit of theatrical, comic, or overbuilt energy.
Origin and history
Nugatory is generally traced to origin uncertain. In modern use, the history matters less than the strong tone the word still carries.
Is this word still used today?
Nugatory is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
Example sentences
- The column dismissed the whole rumor as nugatory.
- In the novel, one nugatory is enough to derail the dinner party.
- She used nugatory in the essay because the plain modern word felt too bland.
- The teacher paused to explain nugatory before asking the class to use it in context.
- They kept repeating nugatory because the sound of it was almost as memorable as the meaning.
When should you use this word?
Use nugatory when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in describing tools, curiosities, and mysterious things with personality.
Similar words
abacus, apparatus, astrolabe, bricabrac, carafe
Opposite or contrasting words
simplicity, plain tool, straightforward device
Common questions
- What does nugatory mean? of little value, importance, or practical effect.
- How do you pronounce nugatory? It is commonly pronounced .
- Is nugatory still used today? Nugatory is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
- When should you use nugatory? Use nugatory when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in describing tools, curiosities, and mysterious things with personality.
- What words are similar to nugatory? Similar words include abacus, apparatus, astrolabe, and bricabrac.
Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 9, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.