weak-headed

weak-headed

A weak-headed student struggles with a simple math problem.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Lacking intelligence or mental strength: "weak-headed" describes someone who is not very smart, easily confused, or lacking in intellectual capacity. It can also imply a tendency to be easily influenced or unable to think clearly.
    • Foolish or simple-minded: This meaning suggests a person who makes poor judgments or is naive due to limited mental ability.
Usage Examples
  • Adjective:
    • He was considered weak-headed by his peers because he could not solve basic puzzles. (He was seen as lacking intelligence.)
    • The weak-headed decision to trust a stranger led to her losing her savings. (A foolish decision due to poor judgment.)
    • She felt weak-headed after the long illness, struggling to follow conversations. (Mentally weak or confused.)
Advanced Usage

  • "weak-headed" as a character trait: Often used in a derogatory or critical way to describe someone who is not intellectually capable.

    • The villain in the story was portrayed as weak-headed, easily manipulated by others. (The character lacked mental strength.)

  • "weak-headed" in medical or psychological contexts: Can refer to a temporary state of mental weakness, such as after an injury or illness.

    • After the concussion, he was weak-headed and could not concentrate. (Temporarily mentally impaired.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Weak-minded (adj): a synonym meaning lacking determination or intelligence.

    • She was weak-minded and gave in to peer pressure. (Easily influenced, lacking resolve.)

  • Weak-headedness (n): the state or quality of being weak-headed.

    • His weak-headedness made him an easy target for scams. (His lack of intelligence.)
Synonyms
  • Foolish: lacking good sense or judgment.
  • Simple-minded: naive or lacking in intelligence.
  • Dull-witted: slow to understand or learn.
  • Feeble-minded: dated term for lacking intelligence.
Related Idioms

  • Not the brightest bulb in the box: a humorous idiom meaning someone is not very intelligent.

    • He is not the brightest bulb in the box, often making weak-headed mistakes. (He is not smart.)

  • A few cards short of a full deck: an idiom for someone who is mentally lacking.

    • Her weak-headed plan showed she was a few cards short of a full deck. (Her plan was foolish.)