Poindexter
Poindexter (noun) means an informal, often mocking term for someone seen as overly bookish, nerdy, or socially awkward. Example: “They teased him as a poindexter for always doing extra homework.”
How to use Poindexter
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dated, mildly mocking slang term for a nerdy or overly studious person.
Informal and somewhat dated slang, mostly heard in American English.
Word forms
Poindexters plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They teased him as a _____ for always doing extra homework.
Etymology
From the surname Poindexter, popularized as slang after a bookish, socially awkward character of that name appeared in the 1959 Felix the Cat cartoon.
Rhymes for Poindexter
See all rhymes for Poindexter →Frequently asked questions
What does “Poindexter” mean?
The word “Poindexter” means an informal, often mocking term for someone seen as overly bookish, nerdy, or socially awkward. In plain terms, a dated, mildly mocking slang term for a nerdy or overly studious person.
How do you pronounce “Poindexter”?
“Poindexter” is pronounced POYN-dehks-tuh (/ˈpɔɪnˌdɛkstɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “Poindexter” in a sentence?
Here is “Poindexter” used in a sentence: “They teased him as a poindexter for always doing extra homework.”
What part of speech is “Poindexter”?
“Poindexter” is a noun.
Where does the word “Poindexter” come from?
The word “Poindexter” dates back to around 1959. From the surname Poindexter, popularized as slang after a bookish, socially awkward character of that name appeared in the 1959 Felix the Cat cartoon.