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Witless: meaning, definitions and examples

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witless

 

[ˈwɪt.ləs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

lack of intelligence

The term 'witless' refers to a person who lacks intelligence or good sense. It is often used to describe someone who acts foolishly or without thought. The word can convey a sense of annoyance or disdain, particularly when someone's actions are perceived as mindless. This term can also imply a failure to use reason or logic in decision-making or behavior.

Synonyms

dull, foolish, ignorant, mindless, stupid.

Examples of usage

  • He made a witless comment during the meeting.
  • Her witless behavior left everyone baffled.
  • The witless criminal did not plan his escape.
  • Don't be so witless as to ignore the obvious signs.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'witless' comes from the Old English term 'wit', meaning understanding, combined with 'less', meaning without.
  • Historically, 'wit' was associated with wisdom and mental sharpness, so 'witless' straightforwardly means lacking that quality.

Literature

  • Writers like Shakespeare have used the term to describe characters who are foolish or lacking in insight, often for comedic effect.
  • In modern literature, 'witless' frequently appears as a way to critique characters who fail to perceive obvious truths.

Psychology

  • Cognitive psychology often discusses levels of understanding and intelligence, with 'witless' describing individuals who struggle with complex problem-solving.
  • Studies show that people may be labeled as 'witless' due to cognitive biases, limiting their perceived intelligence.

Pop Culture

  • Various films and TV shows depict 'witless' characters as comic relief, emphasizing their inability to grasp social cues or sarcasm.
  • In popular memes, ‘witless’ is often humorously applied to depict clueless behavior, making fun of everyday scenarios.

Philosophy

  • 'Witless' can spark discussions on the nature of intelligence and foolishness, encouraging debates about what constitutes true wisdom.
  • Philosophers have often pondered the implications of being 'witless', linking it to ignorance, an issue debated in ethical contexts.

Translations

Translations of the word "witless" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sem inteligência

🇮🇳 बेवकूफ

🇩🇪 töricht

🇮🇩 bodoh

🇺🇦 безглуздий

🇵🇱 bezmyślny

🇯🇵 愚かな

🇫🇷 sot

🇪🇸 tonto

🇹🇷 ahmak

🇰🇷 어리석은

🇸🇦 أحمق

🇨🇿 hloupý

🇸🇰 hlúpy

🇨🇳 愚蠢的

🇸🇮 neumen

🇮🇸 heimskur

🇰🇿 ақылсыз

🇬🇪 ბრიყვი

🇦🇿 axmaq

🇲🇽 tonto

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,648 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.