Cretin: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the French 'crétin', which originally meant 'Christian', reflecting an attitude of compassion towards those with disabilities.
• In the 19th century, the term became associated with individuals affected by a severe form of mental impairment often due to iodine deficiency.

Psychology

• Using derogatory terms like this can perpetuate stigma and shame, contributing to negative self-esteem in those targeted.
• Research shows that labeling individuals can influence how they perceive themselves and how others treat them, often leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Cultural Impact

• The term has appeared in various forms of media, often used to mock or insult characters in films and television, reinforcing negative stereotypes.
• Contemporary discussions around inclusivity have led to a push for reducing the use of such outdated and harmful terms in public discourse.

Literature

• Authors like Mark Twain and Charles Dickens have used the term in their works to highlight character flaws or social criticisms.
• The use of derogatory terms can serve as a literary device to amplify themes of social injustice and discrimination.

Public Perception

• The usage of this term in everyday conversation is increasingly seen as offensive, as society moves toward greater respect for individuals with disabilities.
• Awareness campaigns often highlight the importance of language and its impact on societal attitudes towards intelligence and ability.

Ranking #36,419, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 36416 resealed
• 36417 painfulness
• 36418 vivify
• 36419 cretin
• 36420 shrivelling
• 36421 somnambulist
• 36422 effervescing
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