: highly unusual : bizarre
an off-the-wall sense of humor

Examples of off-the-wall in a Sentence

she does have some off-the-wall suggestions about home decorating
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But don’t several vintage sitcoms from the era feature a largely unrecognized subversive or off-the-wall quality? Chris Reed, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 July 2025 Wiseman came up with one of de Armas’ favorite off-the-wall weapons: an ice skate that Eve sticks her hand in and uses like a boxing glove on an enemy. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 6 June 2025 Don’t let a vague comment or off-the-wall plan derail your progress and personal growth. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 20 May 2025 In Season 4, expect more off-the-wall storytelling, a bunch of celebrities lending their voices – and sometimes faces – to the characters, and even some musical performances. Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for off-the-wall

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of off-the-wall was in 1953

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Cite this Entry

“Off-the-wall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/off-the-wall. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

off-the-wall

adjective
: very unusual : bizarre
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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