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Simpleton - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A simpleton is a person who lacks intelligence or common sense, often perceived as foolish or gullible. The term is used to describe someone who is easily deceived or slow to understand.

simpleton

/ˈsɪmpəltən/ /ˈsɪmpəltən/

Definition:

A foolish or gullible person lacking intelligence or common sense.

Synonyms:

fool, dunce, idiot, moron

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

genius, intellectual

Common Collocations:

village simpleton, poor simpleton, harmless simpleton

Derivatives:

simpletonism, simpletonish

Usage Tips:

Use "simpleton" to describe someone perceived as unintelligent, often with a condescending tone; avoid in formal contexts.

Common Phrases:

act the simpleton, play the simpleton

Etymology:

Derived from "simple" + "-ton," a suffix implying a person with a certain characteristic (17th century).

Examples:

  • 1. He laughed like a simpleton at every joke.
  • 2. The villagers thought him a harmless simpleton.
  • 3. Don’t act like a simpleton—think before you speak!
  • 4. She dismissed his idea as something only a simpleton would believe.

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