dullard
UK: ˈdʌləd | US: ˈdʌlərd
n. a slow-witted or stupid person
The word "dullard" combines "dull," meaning slow or lacking sharpness (from Old English dol, meaning foolish), with the suffix "-ard," which originated from Old French -ard and was used to form pejorative nouns (e.g., "drunkard," "coward"). The suffix implies a habitual or exaggerated trait, making "dullard" literally "one who is habitually dull." This construction reflects Middle English's tendency to create derogatory terms by blending native and borrowed elements.
The teacher sighed, frustrated by the dullard's inability to grasp the simple lesson.
In the story, the villain's henchmen were portrayed as dullards who followed orders without question.
He was often mocked as a dullard because of his slow responses in conversations.
The play's comic relief came from a dullard who misunderstood every situation.
Despite being labeled a dullard in school, he later proved his intelligence in practical tasks.