nincompoop

[ nin-kuhm-poop, ning- ]

noun

1. a fool or simpleton.

nincompoop

/ ˈnɪŋ-; ˈnɪnkəmˌpuːp /

noun

1. a stupid person; fool; idiot

Other Words From

• nincom·pooper·y noun
• nincom·poopish adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nincompoop¹

First recorded in 1670–80; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of nincompoop¹

C17: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

Tom was of course not a nincompoop, but a serious, thoughtful person who hungered to add substance to sketch comedy.

From Los Angeles Times

Frustrated with the George W. Bush administration’s response to disasters in Arkansas, he called the Federal Emergency Management Agency “an incompetent bunch of nincompoops that simply can’t run their agency.”

From Washington Times

A multinational corporation intent on protecting franchises that bring it more than $80 billion a year has thus far made its adversary look like a blustering nincompoop.

From Los Angeles Times

The famed radio host took issue with our “nation of nincompoops” during his first show back from a summer vacation on Tuesday, and pointed the finger at the former president’s base.

From Washington Times

“Pennsylvania is a parochial state. There is a pronounced east-west divide, with voters in Pittsburgh inclined to shunning Philadelphia-area candidates and voting for Pittsburgh area candidates, even if they are nincompoops.”

From Washington Times

Related Words

• dunce