Synonyms for

Dumb

Verb / dʌm / Another word for dumb — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

lacking the power of speech; temporarily unable to speak; stupid or unintelligent.

Synonyms & similar words

dull slow dim speechless obtuse dense silent mute mute silent speechless unintelligible stupid foolish dim-witted idiotic dense slow-witted ignorant uninformed naive gullible simple-minded unwise unreasonable ridiculous crazy insane

Synonyms by register

Formal

inarticulate mute unresponsive silent

Informal

stupid idiotic dense slow brainless

Literary

voiceless tongue-tied mute

Antonyms

intelligent clever smart bright wise articulate

Common collocations

  • dumb luck
  • dumbfounded
  • dumb it down
  • dumb question
  • dumb and dumber
  • play dumb
  • act dumb

Word family

adjective dumb
adverb dumbly

Usage note

The word 'dumb' can be offensive when used to describe a person's intelligence. It is more appropriately used to describe a lack of speech or a situation of being stunned into silence.

Example sentences

  1. The mute boy communicated with sign language.
  2. The crowd fell silent as the singer took the stage.
  3. After the surgery, she was temporarily speechless.
  4. The unintelligible language was difficult to understand.
  5. He felt stupid for forgetting his own birthday.

Quotes

  • Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt. - Abraham Lincoln
  • I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious. - Albert Einstein
  • The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing. - Socrates

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