Dotardness: meaning, definitions and examples
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dotardness
[ ˈdōtərdnəs ]
mental decline
Dotardness refers to the state of being a dotard, which is an individual who has become senile or exhibits a decline in mental faculties due to old age. It typically implies a degree of foolishness or ineffectiveness associated with aging. The term emphasizes the loss of mental sharpness and the potential for irrational behavior typically seen in the elderly.
Synonyms
decline, fogginess, foolishness, senility.
Examples of usage
- His dotardness became evident when he struggled to remember simple facts.
- The writings of the dotardness of certain leaders have raised concerns about their decision-making.
- As she aged, her dotardness led her to forget even the most important family events.
Etymology
The word 'dotard' traces its origins to the Old English term 'dōdor,' which is related to the verb 'dōdan,' meaning 'to be foolish or senseless.' It started to appear in texts around the late 14th century. In classic literature, 'dotard' often describes an elderly person in a disparaging manner, highlighting not just old age but also the accompanying loss of mental acuity. The suffix '-ness' is added to form 'dotardness,' indicating the state or quality of being a dotard. Historically, discussions about dotardness have appeared in various literary works to critique societal attitudes towards aging and the perceived wisdom of elders versus their capacity for reasoned judgment as they age. The term is often used in a context that suggests a juxtaposition between the experience accumulated over a lifetime and the diminishing capacity for sound judgment.