Simpleton: meaning, definitions and examples
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simpleton
[ ˈsɪmpl̩tən ]
naive person
A simpleton is a person who is lacking in common sense or intelligence, often seen as naive or foolish. This term is usually used in a derogatory manner to describe someone who is easily deceived or manipulated.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He was often taken advantage of due to being a simpleton.
- Don't be such a simpleton and believe everything you hear.
character in literature
In literature, a simpleton is a character archetype often portrayed as a foolish or gullible individual. This character type is commonly used for comic relief or as a contrast to more intelligent characters.
Synonyms
comic relief character, foolish character
Examples of usage
- The simpleton in the story provided comic relief with his silly antics.
- The simpleton's naive nature led to humorous situations in the plot.
Translations
Translations of the word "simpleton" in other languages:
🇵🇹 simplório
🇮🇳 मूर्ख
🇩🇪 Einfaltspinsel
🇮🇩 orang sederhana
🇺🇦 простак
🇵🇱 prostak
🇯🇵 単純者 (たんじゅんしゃ)
🇫🇷 simplet
🇪🇸 simplón
🇹🇷 saf
🇰🇷 단순한 사람 (dansunhan salam)
🇸🇦 بسيط
🇨🇿 prostý člověk
🇸🇰 prostáčik
🇨🇳 傻瓜 (shǎguā)
🇸🇮 preproščina
🇮🇸 einfallinn maður
🇰🇿 қарапайым адам
🇬🇪 უბრალო ადამიანი
🇦🇿 sadə insan
🇲🇽 simplón
Word origin
The term 'simpleton' has roots in Middle English, where 'simple' referred to someone of humble or lowly status. Over time, it evolved to mean a person lacking intelligence or wit. The derogatory connotation of 'simpleton' emerged in the 17th century, depicting individuals as foolish or easily deceived. Despite its negative undertones, the word remains in use to describe someone perceived as naive or gullible.
See also: simplicity, simplified, simplify, simplistic, simply.