noun

ninny

NIH-nee

Ninny (noun) means a foolish or silly person. Example: “Don't be such a ninny — just ask for directions.”

noun

A foolish or silly person.

"Don't be such a ninny — just ask for directions."

How to use ninny

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA gentle, old-fashioned put-down for someone acting foolishly.

When to use it

Mild and often affectionate rather than genuinely harsh.

ninnies plural

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Can you complete this real example?

Don't be such a _____ — just ask for directions.

Origin unclear; possibly linked to "innocent" or an old Italian word for a small child.

Origin: Italian

nincompoop

idiot fool poop nincompoop fathead

Ginny tinny vinny Jinny skinny whinny

What does “ninny” mean?

The word “ninny” means a foolish or silly person. In plain terms, a gentle, old-fashioned put-down for someone acting foolishly.

How do you pronounce “ninny”?

“Ninny” is pronounced NIH-nee (/ˈnɪni/ in IPA).

How do you use “ninny” in a sentence?

Here is “ninny” used in a sentence: “Don't be such a ninny — just ask for directions.”

What part of speech is “ninny”?

“Ninny” is a noun.

Where does the word “ninny” come from?

The word “ninny” comes from Italian. Origin unclear; possibly linked to "innocent" or an old Italian word for a small child.

Vocabulary lists that include ninny:

idiot fool poop nincompoop fathead