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Meaning of imbecile
The primary meaning of the word "imbecile" is a person considered foolish or stupid.
Etymology of imbecile
The word "imbecile" originates from the Latin "imbecillus," meaning weak, and was initially used in the 15th century to describe someone weak-minded or feeble
Historically, it was used in psychology and medicine to classify individuals with intellectual disabilities, but its usage has become largely pejorative and is now considered offensive in many contexts
Synonyms
idiot
fool
simpleton
dimwit
moron
cretin
dolt
dunce
numbskull
numbskulled
blockhead
buffoon
ignoramus
numpty
muppet
twit
twerp
halfwit
dullard
duffer
numbfish
incompetent
inept
foolish
stupid
mindless
brainless
thoughtless
senseless
ridiculous
absurd
preposterous
laughable
incompetent
ineffectual
ineffective
obtuse
clumsy
oafish
boorish
loutish
Definitions
- A person who is considered foolish or stupid, or whose actions are silly or ridiculous
- A person with moderate to severe intellectual disability, historically used in medical contexts but now largely obsolete due to its offensive connotations
Usage Examples
- The comedian's jokes were so silly that they made him look like an imbecile on stage
- The character in the novel was portrayed as an imbecile, unable to make rational decisions or think critically
- The politician's actions were deemed foolish by the public, leading to accusations of being an imbecile in office
Antonyms
genius
intellectual
scholar
expert
mastermind
sage
philosopher
thinker
sage
intelligent
wise
astute
clever
brilliant
sharp
smart
erudite
knowledgeable
informed
discerning
perceptive
insightful
shrewd
cunning
resourceful
ingenious