Dunce: meaning, definitions and examples
๐คฆโโ๏ธ
dunce
[ dสns ]
informal usage
A dunce is a person who is considered slow to learn or lacks intellectual ability. The term is often used derogatorily to describe someone who struggles academically or doesn't grasp concepts easily. Historically, it implied a lack of education or an inability to understand basic principles. It can also suggest stubbornness or a refusal to recognize one's own ignorance.
Synonyms
clod, fool, ignoramus, simpleton
Examples of usage
- Don't be such a dunce and ask questions if you don't understand.
- He felt like a dunce when the teacher called on him and he had no answer.
- The team was frustrated with their coach for calling him a dunce after the game.
Translations
Translations of the word "dunce" in other languages:
๐ต๐น ignorante
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฎเฅเคฐเฅเค
๐ฉ๐ช Dummkopf
๐ฎ๐ฉ bodoh
๐บ๐ฆ ะดััะตะฝั
๐ต๐ฑ gลupiec
๐ฏ๐ต ๆใ่ (ใใใใใฎ)
๐ซ๐ท imbรฉcile
๐ช๐ธ tonto
๐น๐ท aptal
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ฐ๋ณด
๐ธ๐ฆ ุบุจู
๐จ๐ฟ hlupรกk
๐ธ๐ฐ hlupรกk
๐จ๐ณ ๅป็ (shวguฤ)
๐ธ๐ฎ neumen
๐ฎ๐ธ heimskur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐาัะปััะท
๐ฌ๐ช แแ แแ (brma)
๐ฆ๐ฟ axmaq
๐ฒ๐ฝ tonto
Etymology
The term 'dunce' originated from the name of the Scottish philosopher and theologian John Duns Scotus, who lived in the 13th century. Duns Scotus was known for his complex and challenging philosophical ideas, which were not easily understood by all. In the late 16th century, his followers, the 'Duns men' or 'Dunses', came to symbolize those who clung to confusing theories, leading to the association of Duns Scotus with foolishness and ignorance. Eventually, the term was transformed into 'dunce', and it began to be applied more broadly to anyone who was perceived as dull or slow-witted. The negative connotation of 'dunce' solidified over time, as it became a derogatory label for students who struggled academically, particularly in the context of formal education.