Dimwitted: meaning, definitions and examples

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dimwitted

 

[ ˈdɪmˌwɪtɪd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

describing intelligence

Dimwitted refers to a lack of intelligence or the inability to think or reason clearly. It is often used in a derogatory manner to describe someone perceived as foolish or slow in understanding.

Synonyms

dull-witted, foolish, obtuse, stupid

Examples of usage

  • Despite his dimwitted remarks, she tried to explain the concept clearly.
  • The dimwitted character in the film provided comic relief.
  • I found his dimwitted questions quite frustrating.
  • Her dimwitted decision cost them dearly in the end.

Translations

Translations of the word "dimwitted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tolo

🇮🇳 मूर्ख

🇩🇪 dumm

🇮🇩 bodoh

🇺🇦 дурний

🇵🇱 głupi

🇯🇵 愚かな

🇫🇷 idiot

🇪🇸 tonto

🇹🇷 aptal

🇰🇷 바보

🇸🇦 غبي

🇨🇿 hloupý

🇸🇰 hlúpy

🇨🇳 愚蠢的

🇸🇮 neumen

🇮🇸 heimskur

🇰🇿 ақылсыз

🇬🇪 ბრიყვი

🇦🇿 axmaq

🇲🇽 tonto

Word origin

The word 'dimwitted' is a compound of 'dim', meaning 'not bright' or 'lacking in intelligence', and 'witted', derived from 'wit', which originally referred to the ability to think and reason. The term suggests a dullness not only in intelligence but also in mental quickness and sharpness. It is believed to have emerged in the English language around the early 20th century, reflecting a colloquial approach to describe someone whose cognitive abilities are perceived as limited. The usage of 'dim' can be traced back to the Old English 'dym', meaning 'dark, obscure', and 'witted' from Middle English 'wit', implying mental capacity. Over time, 'dimwitted' has come to be used most commonly in informal contexts, often as an insult implying ignorance or lack of common sense.