online vocabulary.com

Asinine - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Asinine means extremely foolish, silly, or stupid. It is often used to describe behavior or remarks that lack intelligence or common sense, similar to how a donkey (ass) might act.

asinine

/ˈæsəˌnaɪn/ /ˈæsɪnaɪn/

Definition:

Extremely foolish or stupid, resembling an ass in behavior.

Synonyms:

foolish, stupid, idiotic, senseless, absurd

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

intelligent, sensible, wise

Common Collocations:

asinine behavior, asinine remark, asinine decision, asinine comment

Derivatives:

asininity, asininely

Usage Tips:

Use "asinine" to describe actions or ideas that are blatantly foolish or lacking sense.

Common Phrases:

asinine argument, asinine suggestion, asinine notion

Etymology:

From Latin "asinus" (ass/donkey), implying stupidity or stubbornness akin to the animal's perceived traits.

Examples:

  • 1. His asinine joke offended everyone at the meeting.
  • 2. The politician’s asinine remarks cost him public support.
  • 3. Stop making such asinine excuses for your mistakes!
  • 4. Her asinine decision led to a huge financial loss.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS