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ignoramus

noun

/ˌɪɡnəˈreɪməs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ignoramus

A person who is profoundly ignorant, lacking specific knowledge or understanding, or exhibiting a general lack of education or awareness.
"If you don't want to sound like an ignoramus, do some research before you speak."

Detailed meaning of ignoramus

Calling someone an ignoramus typically implies criticism or disdain for their lack of knowledge or their inability to comprehend a particular subject matter. It's often used informally to describe individuals who display a consistent and sometimes willful disregard for learning or acquiring information. While the term may sound harsh, it's essential to remember that everyone has areas of expertise and areas where they may be less knowledgeable, and using it in a derogatory manner can be unkind.

Example sentences containing ignoramus

1. The professor couldn't believe the audacity of the ignoramus who interrupted the lecture.
2. Despite his claims, he was just an ignoramus who knew very little about the subject.
3. The committee was frustrated with the ignoramus who constantly derailed the discussions with irrelevant comments.
4. She dismissed his opinion as that of an ignoramus who lacked basic understanding.
5. The ignoramus confidently spouted false information, unaware of his own ignorance.
6. It's exhausting to engage in a conversation with such an arrogantly ignorant ignoramus.

History and etymology of ignoramus

The noun 'ignoramus' has a straightforward etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin phrase 'ignoramus,' which literally means 'we do not know.' In legal usage in England during the 16th century, this Latin phrase was often used in grand jury proceedings when a jury did not have sufficient evidence to indict a person. Over time, the term 'ignoramus' transitioned from a legal context to a colloquial one, coming to describe a person who is profoundly ignorant, lacking specific knowledge or understanding, or exhibiting a general lack of education or awareness. It carries a pejorative connotation, emphasizing a person's lack of knowledge or expertise in a particular subject or in matters of general importance. This etymology highlights the historical connection between the Latin phrase 'ignoramus' and the modern concept of profound ignorance and lack of awareness.

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Further usage examples of ignoramus

1. The politician's ignorant remarks revealed him to be nothing more than an ignoramus.
2. The professor couldn't hide his disappointment in the ignoramus who failed to grasp even the simplest concepts.
3. The ignoramus believed he knew everything, but in reality, he was clueless.
4. The ignoramus's ignorant behavior reflected poorly on the entire group.
5. Instead of seeking knowledge, the ignoramus preferred to wallow in ignorance.
6. Despite being an ignoramus, he never hesitated to offer unsolicited advice.
7. The ignoramus made a fool of himself by confidently asserting things he had no understanding of.
8. The ignoramus's ignorance was exposed when he was unable to answer basic questions.
9. The committee was reluctant to include the ignoramus in their discussions due to his lack of knowledge.
10. It's frustrating to deal with an ignoramus who refuses to acknowledge their own ignorance.
11. The ignoramus's arrogant attitude masked his lack of knowledge on the subject.
12. The ignoramus's foolish comments betrayed his ignorance on the matter.
13. The ignoramus's ignorance was obvious to everyone but himself.
14. Despite the ignoramus's claims, he was far from being an expert in the field.