Synonyms for

Idiot

Verb / ˈɪˌdi:ʌt / Another word for idiot — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a stupid or foolish person

Synonyms & similar words

retard halfwit cretin moron imbecile changeling fool moron dope simpleton nitwit imbecile dolt blockhead dunce clod ignoramus numbskull dummy chump halfwit dimwit dork nincompoop goof schmuck

Synonyms by register

Formal

fool imbecile moron simpleton

Informal

dummy dope nincompoop numbskull bonehead

Literary

buffoon clown simple

Antonyms

genius intellectual sage expert mastermind prodigy brainiac

Common collocations

  • complete idiot
  • utter idiot
  • total idiot
  • blatant idiot
  • rank idiot
  • obvious idiot
  • certified idiot

Word family

noun idiocy
adjective idiotic

Usage note

Idiot is a highly offensive and insulting term. It is generally considered vulgar and should be avoided in polite conversation or formal writing.

Example sentences

  1. 1. Don't be an idiot and run across the street without looking both ways.
  2. 2. The coach called the player an idiot for not following the team's strategy.
  3. 3. She felt like an idiot after realizing she had been wearing her shirt inside out all day.
  4. 4. He was acting like an idiot at the party and embarrassing himself.
  5. 5. The boss accused the employee of being an idiot for making such a simple mistake.

Quotes

  • 1. 'Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former.' - Albert Einstein
  • 2. 'Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.' - Abraham Lincoln
  • 3. 'It is better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.' - Mark Twain

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