en idiot

Definition & meaning

Idiot means “idiot”: a person considered very foolish or lacking good judgment. It is usually an insult.

Historically, the word was also used as a clinical label for a person with an intellectual disability. This usage is now outdated and offensive.

Grammar & Word origin

• Noun: en idiot
• Definite singular: idioten
• Plural: idioter
• Definite plural: idioterna

The word comes via Latin from Greek idiōtēs, originally meaning a private person or someone without specialized knowledge.

Synonyms & antonyms

• dåre ↗ — “fool” or “madman”; often sounds more literary or old-fashioned.
• dumskalle ↗ — “blockhead”; an informal insult emphasizing stupidity.
• snille ↗ — “genius”; a possible contrast, emphasizing exceptional intelligence rather than good judgment.

Common phrases & collocations

• din idiot ↗ — “you idiot,” a direct insult.
• bete sig som en idiot ↗ — “to behave like an idiot.”