twerp
Twerp (noun) means a foolish, annoying, or insignificant person. Example: “Stop acting like such a twerp and apologize.”
How to use twerp
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA mildly insulting word for someone silly or irritating.
Informal and somewhat old-fashioned, often used affectionately rather than harshly.
Word forms
twerps plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Stop acting like such a _____ and apologize.
Etymology
Origin uncertain — British slang from the 1910s; various theories link it to a person's name, a bird-call word, or Welsh twp ("fool"), but none is confirmed.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for twerp
See all rhymes for twerp →Frequently asked questions
What does “twerp” mean?
The word “twerp” means a foolish, annoying, or insignificant person. In plain terms, a mildly insulting word for someone silly or irritating.
How do you pronounce “twerp”?
“Twerp” is pronounced twurp (/twɝp/ in IPA).
How do you use “twerp” in a sentence?
Here is “twerp” used in a sentence: “Stop acting like such a twerp and apologize.”
What part of speech is “twerp”?
“Twerp” is a noun.
Where does the word “twerp” come from?
The word “twerp” dates back to around 1910 and comes from Welsh. Origin uncertain — British slang from the 1910s; various theories link it to a person's name, a bird-call word, or Welsh twp ("fool"), but none is confirmed.
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