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Definitions

stupid

[stoo-pid, styoo‑] / ˈstu pɪd, ˈstyu‑ /


Usage

What are other ways to say stupid? The adjective stupid implies natural slowness or dullness of intellect, or, sometimes, a benumbed or dazed state of mind; it is also used to mean foolish or silly: He was rendered stupid by a blow; It is stupid to do such a thing. Foolish implies a lack of common sense or good judgment or, sometimes, a weakness of mind: a foolish decision; The child seems foolish. Fatuous implies being not only foolish, dull, and vacant in mind, but complacent and highly self-satisfied as well: fatuous and self-important; fatuous answers. Silly denotes extreme and conspicuous foolishness; it may also refer to pointlessness of jokes, remarks, etc.: silly and senseless behavior; a perfectly silly statement. Inane applies to silliness that is notably lacking in content, sense, or point: inane questions that leave one with no reply. Asinine originally meant like an ass; it applies to witlessly stupid conversations or conduct and suggests a lack of social grace or perception: He failed to notice the reaction to his asinine remarks.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Fred Koester, 78, called the conflict a "stupid war" that was "totally unnecessary."

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

CEOs and billionaires don’t worry that people will think they’re stupid because of their poor composition.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

"It was like that lightbulb moment, I felt sort of vulnerable and a bit stupid," she said.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

"If this was a trial on whether I've made stupid tweets, I'd say I'm guilty," Musk conceded at one point.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

Zara pulls a face, and I instantly regret the stupid, obnoxious ringtone I picked, which for some reason is set to maximum volume.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam