Definition

Adjective: * Lacking intelligence or quickness of mind; slow to understand or learn. This word is an informal, often derogatory, term describing a person who is perceived as stupid, obtuse, or not very bright. It suggests a mind that is figuratively "thick" or dense, making it difficult for ideas to penetrate.

Usage and Examples

This adjective is used to describe a person's perceived intellectual capacity, typically in informal or critical contexts. * He's too thickheaded to understand the simple instructions. * Don't be so thickheaded! The solution is obvious. * I've tried explaining it three times, but she's being completely thickheaded about it.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in moments of frustration or exasperation with someone who is not comprehending something the speaker finds simple.
• It can be considered rude or insulting, so it is not appropriate for formal or polite conversation.

Variants and Related Words

• Thickhead (noun): An informal term for a stupid or foolish person.
  • That thickhead forgot his keys again.
• Thick (adjective, informal): In British English especially, "thick" can be used alone to mean stupid.
  • He's a bit thick, isn't he?

Synonyms

• Stupid
• Obtuse
• Dense
• Dim
• Slow-witted
• Unintelligent

Antonyms

• Intelligent
• Bright
• Clever
• Quick-witted
• Astute

Adjective

1. (used informally) stupid