Definition

A person who is slow to understand or lacks intelligence; a stupid or foolish person.

Pronunciation

US English

UK English

Part of Speech

Noun.

Synonyms

Simpleton, Fool, Idiot, Moron, Dolt, Blockhead, Dimwit, Nitwit, Imbecile, Ignoramus, Dunce, Dunderhead, Halfwit, numskull, Bonehead, Chump.

Antonyms

Genius, Brain, Intellectual, Scholar, Sage, Thinker, Prodigious, Brilliant, Astute, Clever, Knowledgeable, Smart, Wise.

Word Forms

Part of Speech Words
Noun dullness, dullards, dullard, dullnesses
Verb dulling, dull, dulls, dulled
Adjective dull
Adverb dully

Example Sentences

  • The dullard couldn’t figure out how to solve the simplest puzzle.

  • She found it hard to carry on a conversation with the dullard who had no interest in any form of intellectual discourse.

  • The class was disgruntled when they were partnered with the dullard who seemed to be dragging them down.

  • Despite being a dullard, he was happy with his life as he lacked the awareness to see his own shortcomings.

Usage

Dullard is a term that is usually used to describe a person who lacks intelligence, is not very bright, and has difficulty understanding things. It is used as a noun, and it can be preceded by certain prefixes or followed by certain suffixes to modify its meaning. For example, the prefix “half-” can be added to the word to create “half-dullard,” which means someone who is only slightly unintelligent. On the other hand, the suffix “-ard” can be added to other words to create similar meanings like drunkard, laggard, coward suggesting the same inferiority.

Dullard is used in a derogatory manner, often to insult or dismiss someone’s opinions or actions. It can be considered insulting due to the fact that it indicates a lack of intellectual ability. However, it is important to note that using this term is not reasonable to use as everyone has a unique individuals in the way they think or complete tasks.

It is essential to be cautious when using the word “dullard,” as it can be perceived as mean or hurtful. Using it in a professional setting, such as the workplace, can be inappropriate and against the code of conduct guidelines. It is important to respect everyone’s intellectual ability and help develop an atmosphere of support and collaboration.