halfwit
Halfwit (noun) means a foolish or stupid person (informal and rather insulting). Example: “Only a halfwit would leave the car running with the keys inside.”
How to use halfwit
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dismissive word for someone acting foolishly.
Informal and insulting — avoid it in polite or professional writing.
Word forms
halfwits plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Only a _____ would leave the car running with the keys inside.
Etymology
From half + wit, first recorded in the early 1600s — someone with only "half" of the mental sharpness expected.
Frequently asked questions
What does “halfwit” mean?
The word “halfwit” means a foolish or stupid person (informal and rather insulting). In plain terms, a dismissive word for someone acting foolishly.
How do you use “halfwit” in a sentence?
Here is “halfwit” used in a sentence: “Only a halfwit would leave the car running with the keys inside.”
What part of speech is “halfwit”?
“Halfwit” is a noun.
Where does the word “halfwit” come from?
The word “halfwit” dates back to around 1600. From half + wit, first recorded in the early 1600s — someone with only "half" of the mental sharpness expected.