noun
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.”
noun
1
A foolish or stupid person (informal and rather insulting).
"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.
When to use it
Informal and insulting — avoid it in polite or professional writing.
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like halfwit.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- halfwits
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.
Class of 1600
halfwit joined the language around 1600.
See the full Class of 1600 →
Synonyms
View more →Related words
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.
