blockhead

[ blok-hed ]

noun

1. a stupid, doltish person; dunce.

   Synonyms: booby, ignoramus, dullard, dolt, nitwit, fool

2. Obsolete. a piece of wood in the shape of a head, heads, used as a block for hats or wigs.

blockhead

/ ˈblɒkˌhɛd /

noun

1. derogatory.
   a stupid person

Derived Forms

• ˈblockˌheaded, adjective
• ˈblockˌheadedly, adverb
• ˈblockˌheadedness, noun

Other Words From

• blockheaded adjective
• blockheaded·ly adverb
• blockheaded·ness noun
• blockheadism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of blockhead¹

First recorded in 1540–50; block + head

Example Sentences

Also translated as “Blockhead Hans,” “Silly Hans” or “Jack the Dullard,” the tale by Andersen was published in 1855 and is about snobbery and know-how versus sincerity and impulsive actions.

From Seattle Times

An artist’s desire for profit should have no bearing on this analysis; after all, as Kagan quoted Samuel Johnson: “No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money.”

From Slate

“Nowhere does it say to ask some blockhead politicians for their approval.”

From New York Times

"This boned-up Gorilla is no joke he's extreme as they come," reads the description of Brandon Blockhead on Rayment's website.

From BBC

From his Facebook account I'm sent photos of two extreme American bullies - Brandon Blockhead and Kleo - who have just had a litter of puppies.

From BBC

Related Words

• dummy