crackpot

[ krak-pot ]

noun

1. a person who is eccentric, unrealistic, or fanatical.

adjective

1. eccentric; impractical; fanatical:

   crackpot ideas.

crackpot

/ ˈkrækˌpɒt /

noun

1. an eccentric person; crank

adjective

1. usually prenominal eccentric; crazy

Word History and Origins

Origin of crackpot¹

First recorded in 1860–65; from the phrase cracked pot

Example Sentences

“Totalitarianism in power invariably replaces all first-rate talents, regardless of their sympathies, with those crackpots and fools whose lack of intelligence and creativity is still the best guarantee of their loyalty.”

From Salon

That group, once dismissed as crackpots, allegedly planned to arrest MPs in Berlin on a day it also dubbed "Day X".

From BBC

He contends that the former president’s phone calls with members of the same gang — whom Pence called a “gaggle of crackpot lawyers” — are similarly fair game.

From Los Angeles Times

Absent the American people suddenly waking up and refusing to elect dangerous crackpots to Congress, Brands’ pious wish for congressional reassertion of power is a non-starter.

From Salon

Its bullpen of “scholars” have included neo-Confederate apologists, crackpots out to disprove Einstein’s relativity theory and — wait for it! — crusaders for the legalization of drunk driving.

From Salon