Numskull: meaning, definitions and examples
๐คช
numskull
[ หnษmหskษl ]
informal usage
A 'numskull' is an informal term used to describe a person who is perceived as foolish or lacking intelligence. It reflects a negative judgment about someone's cognitive abilities, often implying that they make silly or poor decisions. The term is typically used in a light-hearted or joking manner, although it can also be derogatory. It originates from a combination of 'numb' and 'skull', suggesting a dullness of mind.
Synonyms
blockhead, dunce, fool, nincompoop, simpleton.
Examples of usage
- Don't be a numskull and forget your keys.
- He really acted like a numskull in that situation.
- Only a numskull would ignore such a good opportunity.
Translations
Translations of the word "numskull" in other languages:
๐ต๐น cabeรงa oca
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฌเฅเคตเคเฅเคซ
๐ฉ๐ช Dummkopf
๐ฎ๐ฉ bodoh
๐บ๐ฆ ะดััะตะฝั
๐ต๐ฑ gลupiec
๐ฏ๐ต ใใซ
๐ซ๐ท imbรฉcile
๐ช๐ธ tonto
๐น๐ท aptal
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ฐ๋ณด
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฃุจูู
๐จ๐ฟ hlupรกk
๐ธ๐ฐ hlupรกk
๐จ๐ณ ๅป็
๐ธ๐ฎ neumen
๐ฎ๐ธ hauskall
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐาัะปััะท
๐ฌ๐ช แแ แแงแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ dรผmaล
๐ฒ๐ฝ tonto
Etymology
The word 'numskull' dates back to the early 19th century, with its earliest recorded use around 1820. It is derived from the combination of the word 'numb' and 'skull', which together create a vivid image of a dull or unthinking mind. The term was likely popularized in British slang and has since spread into informal American English usage. In its early context, 'numskull' was used to describe someone who was not only stupid but also overly confident in their own wisdom. Over the years, it has maintained a humorous connotation, often used among friends or in light-hearted banter rather than in serious insult. Despite its negative implication, the term has a playful tone and is often used to tease rather than genuinely offend.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,473, 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.
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