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numbskull

noun

/ˈnʌmˌskʌl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of numbskull

A person who is considered foolish, stupid, or lacking intelligence.
"He's a numbskull for investing all his money in that obviously fraudulent scheme."

Detailed meaning of numbskull

It is an informal and often lighthearted way to refer to someone who consistently demonstrates a lack of common sense or critical thinking skills. Calling someone a numbskull implies that they make frequent mistakes, have poor judgment, or display a general inability to comprehend or grasp concepts effectively. While the term is typically used in a playful or teasing manner, it can also carry a slightly derogatory undertone. It is important to exercise caution when using this word to ensure that it is received in the intended light-hearted manner and does not cause offense.

Example sentences containing numbskull

1. He's such a numbskull; he can't even remember his own phone number.
2. The numbskull forgot to bring an umbrella on a rainy day.
3. Don't listen to that numbskull; he never knows what he's talking about.
4. She's a complete numbskull when it comes to technology; she can't even send an email.
5. That numbskull locked himself out of his own car again.
6. I can't believe I hired such a numbskull to work on my project.

History and etymology of numbskull

The word 'numbskull' is an interesting term with a colorful etymology. It combines two words to create a humorous and somewhat pejorative expression. 'Numbskull' is believed to have originated in the 17th century and is a fusion of two words: 'numb' and 'skull.' The word 'numb' has roots in Middle English and Old English, where it meant 'deprived of physical sensation' or 'lacking feeling.' 'Skull' refers to the bony structure that encases the brain. Therefore, when you call someone a 'numbskull,' you're essentially suggesting that their skull or head lacks the capacity for intelligence or sensible thinking, emphasizing their foolishness or lack of wit. It's a vivid example of how language playfully combines words to create descriptive insults.

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Further usage examples of numbskull

1. The teacher called him a numbskull after he failed the easiest quiz.
2. Stop acting like a numbskull and use your common sense!
3. She's known as the office numbskull because she's always making silly mistakes.
4. The numbskull dropped his phone in the pool and ruined it.
5. I can't believe I agreed to partner with that numbskull on the group project.
6. The audience couldn't help but laugh at the numbskull's clumsy attempts at juggling.
7. He's the biggest numbskull in our class; he never understands anything we're learning.
8. I can't believe I married such a numbskull; he can't even fix a leaky faucet.
9. It's frustrating working with that numbskull who can't grasp simple concepts.
10. He's a complete numbskull when it comes to understanding technology.
11. I can't believe they put that numbskull in charge of the project.
12. Her reputation as a numbskull precedes her in the office.
13. We had to deal with the numbskull's incompetence for far too long.
14. Don't let that numbskull's comments get to you; he's clueless.
15. He's a well-meaning numbskull, but he makes foolish decisions.
16. The numbskull's reckless behavior put everyone in danger.
17. We need to find a way to work around the numbskull's mistakes.
18. She's the biggest numbskull I've ever had to work with.
19. That numbskull's inability to follow instructions is infuriating.
20. It's embarrassing to have such a numbskull on our team.
21. He's a likable numbskull, but his poor judgment is a liability.
22. That numbskull managed to mess up even the simplest tasks.
23. We can't afford to have a numbskull like him in a leadership role.
24. I've never met a numbskull quite as oblivious as him.
25. The numbskull's constant blunders are driving us all crazy.
26. It's astonishing how that numbskull keeps getting promoted.
27. Dealing with that numbskull's incompetence is beyond frustrating.
28. His numbskull decisions have cost the company dearly.