Doltish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🙃
doltish
[ˈdoʊltɪʃ ]
Definition
describing behavior
The term 'doltish' refers to a state of being foolish or dull-witted. It characterizes a person who displays a lack of intelligence or common sense, often resulting in clumsy or insensitive behavior. People described as doltish may struggle to grasp concepts easily understood by others, leading to situations where they appear naive or slow to comprehend. The word is often used in a derogatory sense, suggesting that someone has poor judgment or is unable to think critically.
Synonyms
dimwitted, dull, foolish, obtuse, stupid.
Examples of usage
- His doltish remarks embarrassed everyone at the meeting.
- She had a doltish look on her face when the answer was revealed.
- The doltish behavior of the group led to multiple misunderstandings.
- Despite his doltish antics, his friends still found him charming.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'doltish'
The word 'doltish' originates from 'dolt,' which comes from the Middle English 'dulte,' meaning 'fool' or 'simpleton.' The lineage of the word can be traced back to the Old English 'doltian,' which means 'to be stupid or dull.' Over time, 'dolt' evolved into a noun used to describe a person who is slow-witted or lacking in intelligence. The adjective form 'doltish' was derived from 'dolt' to describe related qualities or behaviors. Its usage reflects a negative connotation toward individuals who may not be quick to understand or react, solidifying its place in the English lexicon as a derogatory term. Dating back to the 16th century, 'doltish' has found a niche in English literature and conversational speech to characterize characters or individuals who embody a lack of mental sharpness.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,708, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.