nincompoop

/'ninkəmpu:p/

Thân thiện

A man in a silly hat is acting like a complete nincompoop.

Definition

Noun: A stupid or foolish person; a simpleton or idiot.

Usage

This word is used to describe someone who behaves in a silly, foolish, or incompetent manner. It is a mildly old-fashioned and humorous insult, often implying a lack of common sense or intelligence rather than malice.

Examples

• Don't be such a nincompoop; look where you're going!
• I felt like a complete nincompoop when I realized I'd been wearing my shirt inside out all day.
• He's a loveable nincompoop, always getting into silly scrapes.

Advanced Usage

• As a term of endearment: In very informal contexts, it can be used affectionately among friends or family to tease someone for a minor foolish act.
  • "Oh, you lovely nincompoop, you've locked us out again!"

Variants and Related Words

• Ninny (noun): A very similar, slightly older term for a foolish or simple person.
• Nincompoopery (noun, rare): Foolish behavior or action.
  • His latest bit of nincompoopery was trying to microwave a metal spoon.

Synonyms

• Fool
• Simpleton
• Dolt
• Blockhead
• Dunce

Idioms and Phrases

• (To be) a proper nincompoop: An emphatic way to call someone a complete fool.
  • You forgot your passport? You're a proper nincompoop!

Học thuật

Noun

1. a stupid foolish person

Từ đồng nghĩa

• poop
• ninny