crackpot
UK: /ˈkrækpɒt/ | US: /ˈkrækpɑːt/
n. an eccentric or foolish person
n. someone with irrational or impractical ideas
The word "crackpot" originated in the late 19th century, combining "crack" (suggesting something broken or unsound) and "pot" (implying a container, possibly for the mind). The term humorously likens an eccentric person's mind to a "cracked pot"—flawed or leaking nonsensical ideas. This metaphorical evolution reflects English's tendency to create vivid, colloquial insults.
Many dismissed his conspiracy theories, calling him a crackpot.
The inventor was labeled a crackpot until his device actually worked.
Don’t listen to that crackpot—his ideas make no sense.
She was tired of being called a crackpot just for thinking differently.
The town’s resident crackpot claimed aliens had visited his backyard.