feeble-minded
Definition
- Adjective:
- Lacking intelligence or mental clarity: "feeble-minded" describes a person who is unable to think clearly or who has limited intellectual capacity. It is often used in a derogatory or outdated sense to imply weakness of mind.
- Indecisive or weak-willed: In a broader, metaphorical sense, it can refer to someone who is easily influenced, lacks resolve, or shows poor judgment.
Usage Examples
- (Outdated classification of low intelligence.)
- (Easily fooled due to lack of mental sharpness.)
- (A foolish or poorly thought-out choice.)
Advanced Usage
"Feeble-mindedness" (noun): the state or condition of being feeble-minded.
- The doctor diagnosed a form of feeble-mindedness in the patient, though modern terms are preferred. (A clinical but outdated label for intellectual disability.)
"to act feeble-minded": to behave in a way that shows a lack of intelligence or resolve.
- Don't act feeble-minded just because you are nervous; think before you speak. (Avoid appearing unintelligent or weak.)
Variants and Related Words
- Feeble (adj): weak, lacking strength or force.
- His feeble attempt to lift the box failed. (Lacking physical strength.)
- Minded (adj): having a specified kind of mind or attitude (used in compounds).
- She is strong-minded and sticks to her principles. (Having a strong will.)
Synonyms
- Simple-minded: lacking in sophistication or intelligence; naive.
- Slow-witted: not quick to understand or learn.
- Weak-minded: lacking determination or mental strength.
Related Idioms
Not the sharpest tool in the shed: a colloquial way of saying someone is not very intelligent.
- He's not the sharpest tool in the shed, but he's kind-hearted. (He is not very smart.)
A few sandwiches short of a picnic: informal phrase meaning lacking intelligence.
- She's a few sandwiches short of a picnic if she thinks that plan will work. (She is not very bright.)
Usage Notes
- Outdated and offensive: The term "feeble-minded" was historically used in medical and legal contexts to classify people with intellectual disabilities. It is now considered derogatory and should be avoided in modern usage. Preferred terms include "intellectually disabled," "learning disabled," or simply describing specific cognitive challenges without labeling the person.