noun
imbecile
ihm-buh-SEEL
Imbecile (noun) means an insulting term for a stupid or foolish person. Example: “He called the driver who cut him off an imbecile.”
noun
1
An insulting term for a stupid or foolish person.
"He called the driver who cut him off an imbecile."
adj
1
Weak-minded or foolish.
"It was an imbecile decision that cost the company millions."
How to use imbecile
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn insulting word for someone acting foolishly or lacking sense.
When to use it
This is an offensive, informal insult — it was once a clinical medical term, but that usage is now considered outdated and derogatory.
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Word forms
- Plural
- imbeciles
- Comparative
- more imbecile
- Superlative
- most imbecile
Fill the gap
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He called the driver who cut him off an _____.
Etymology
From Latin imbecillus, meaning "weak" — literally "without a supporting staff."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for imbecile
See all rhymes for imbecile →Frequently asked questions
What does “imbecile” mean?
The word “imbecile” means an insulting term for a stupid or foolish person. In plain terms, an insulting word for someone acting foolishly or lacking sense.
How do you pronounce “imbecile”?
“Imbecile” is pronounced ihm-buh-SEEL (/ˈɪmbəsɪl/ in IPA).
How do you use “imbecile” in a sentence?
Here is “imbecile” used in a sentence: “He called the driver who cut him off an imbecile.”
What part of speech is “imbecile”?
Depending on how it is used, “imbecile” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “imbecile” come from?
The word “imbecile” comes from Latin. From Latin imbecillus, meaning "weak" — literally "without a supporting staff.".
How many meanings does “imbecile” have?
“Imbecile” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an insulting term for a stupid or foolish person.
