C1nounvulgar2K

Idiot

UK /["/ˈɪdiət/"]/US /["/ˈɪdiət/"]/

Definition

a rude way to refer to somebody who you think is very stupid

In simple words: A very silly or stupid person.

Examples

  • When I lost my passport, I felt such an idiot.
  • What idiot pressed the switch?
  • She was grinning like an absolute idiot.
  • He's made a complete idiot of himself over this woman!
  • I felt like a complete idiot, standing there in front of all those people!
  • She called me an idiot.
  • He knew he was acting like an idiot.
  • What stupid idiot left their shoes on the stairs?
  • I just stood there like an idiot with my mouth open.
  • I realized I was dealing with a bunch of idiots.

Usage notes

Considered an insult, this word is usually used in informal situations. It's not appropriate in formal contexts or polite conversations. Use caution around friends and family.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'idiot' — imagine an 'idiot' tripping over their own shoes.

Collocations

  • babbling
  • big
  • blithering
  • be
  • feel
  • feel like
  • make an idiot of yourself
  • babbling
  • big
  • blithering
  • be
  • feel
  • feel like
  • make an idiot of yourself

Synonyms

  • fool
  • dunce
  • buffoon
  • moron
  • simpleton

Antonyms

  • genius
  • smart
  • intellect

Common mistakes

  • Used in formal writing or speeches.
  • Overused, making it sound less impactful.
  • Confused with 'moron' or 'fool' in severity.