Idiot
/ˈɪd.i.ət/noun
A person of low intelligence or someone who acts in a foolish manner.
Did you know?In ancient Greece, being called an 'idiot' meant you were a private citizen, detached from public affairs—a label of ignorance, not just intellect!
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἰδιώτης (idiotis)
“A private individual or layperson, someone not involved in public life.”
Latin
Latin
idiota
“An uneducated or ignorant person.”
Old French
Old French
idiote
“A person lacking knowledge or education.”
14th Century
Middle English
idiot
“A term for someone considered unlearned or foolish.”
Modern English
English
idiot
“A derogatory term for a person perceived as lacking intelligence.”
Explore more surprising origins