Nincompoop

[NIN-kuhm-poop]

Definition

  1. (noun) A foolish, silly, or stupid person. The term is often used to describe someone who acts in a ridiculous or idiotic manner, making silly mistakes or poor decisions.

Example

The new intern was such a nincompoop, always forgetting important tasks and making a mess of simple assignments, much to the frustration of his co-workers.

Fun Fact

The origin of “nincompoop” is a bit of a mystery, but it is believed to have first appeared in English in the 17th century. One theory suggests that it might be derived from the Latin phrase “non compos mentis,” meaning “not of sound mind,” which was often used in legal contexts to describe someone who was mentally incompetent. Over time, the phrase could have been corrupted and simplified into “nincompoop.” Another theory proposes that “nincompoop” could be related to the Dutch word “ninkkempoep,” meaning a dull or slow-witted person. Regardless of its exact origins, “nincompoop” has become a popular and humorous term for describing someone who acts foolishly or stupidly, often with a touch of affectionate exasperation at their silly behavior.

Previous Words

Immutable

Today's Word Immutable ih-MYOO-tuh-bul Definition (adjective) Unchanging over time or...

Read More

Accretion

Today's Word Accretion uh-KREE-shun Definition (noun) Growth or increase by...

Read More

Odious

Today's Word Odious OH-dee-us Definition (adjective) Extremely unpleasant or repulsive;...

Read More

Mollify

Today's Word Mollify MAH-lih-fy Definition (verb) To appease or soothe...

Read More

Surreptitious

Today's Word Surreptitious sur-up-TISH-us Definition (adjective) Kept secret, especially because...

Read More