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Egghead Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐ŸŽ“
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egghead

[หˆษ›ษกหŒhษ›d ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

informal slang

An egghead is a slang term for an intellectual, someone who is highly academic or studious, often perceived as socially awkward. Typically used in a humorous or disparaging way, it implies that a person is more focused on scholarly pursuits than practical or social abilities.

Synonyms

brainiac, geek, intellectual, scholar.

Examples of usage

  • He's such an egghead, always buried in books.
  • The eggheads at the university developed a complex theory.
  • Her friends call her an egghead because of her love for mathematics.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In the 1980s, the term appeared in various TV shows and movies, often as a light-hearted way to refer to overly intellectual characters.
  • The comic strip 'Doonesbury' featured a character named 'Egghead' who embodied the stereotype of the smart but socially awkward individual.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people labeled as 'eggheads' often face stereotypes that can affect their social interactions and relationships.
  • The 'intellectual elitism' associated with being called an 'egghead' can lead to a perceived divide between academics and the general population.

Literature

  • Writers like Kurt Vonnegut have used the term as a critique of those who prioritize intellect over emotional depth in society.
  • The character 'Eugene' in various plays has often been referred to as an 'egghead,' highlighting a contrast with more practical personas.

Education

  • In academic circles, the term can sometimes celebrate those who achieve high levels of education but can also imply they lack practical skills.
  • The rise of technology and the internet has led to more 'eggheads' sharing their knowledge online, reshaping what being an 'egghead' means in the modern context.

Origin of 'egghead'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'egghead' was popularized in the mid-20th century and was originally used as a slang term for intellectuals.
  • It combines 'egg' (representing smoothness and a round shape) and 'head,' suggesting a person who is smart but may look silly.

The term 'egghead' originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The earliest recorded usage dates back to around 1930, often used to mock or poke fun at intellectuals or those with an overly academic demeanor. The word likely derives from the visual association of an egg-shaped head, suggesting a lack of physical prowess or social skills, prototypically representing a stereotypical nerd or academic. Throughout the decades, it has been used in popular culture and media to characterize characters or individuals who prioritize intellect over physical activities or social interactions. Although initially pejorative, the term has sometimes been embraced in humorous contexts by those who identify as intellectuals, evolving over time to a more neutral or even positive connotation in some circles.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,550, 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.