Pronunciation: [ˈɪdɪˌɒsi] (IPA) 
The word "idiocy" is spelled with five letters: i-d-i-o-c-y. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /ɪdɪəsi/. The "i" is pronounced as "ih" and the "o" as "oh," while the "d" is pronounced with a soft "th" sound, as in "the." The "c" is pronounced as a hard "k," followed by the vowel sound "ee" and finally the consonant "y." The word refers to a state of extreme foolishness or mental deficiency.
Idiocy is a derogatory term used to describe a state of extreme foolishness, complete lack of intelligence, or profound stupidity. It refers to the quality or character of being an idiot, which can be defined as a person who behaves in a consistently unintelligent or foolish manner.
In this context, idiocy is often associated with a severe deficiency in cognitive abilities or common sense. It implies an inability to grasp or understand simple concepts or make rational decisions. Idiocy often manifests itself through a lack of logical thinking, poor judgment, or an inability to learn from past mistakes.
Idiocy can also be used to describe actions, behaviors, or statements that are senseless, absurd, or illogical. It is often used as a way to express frustration or disdain towards someone who is behaving in a foolish or imbecilic way.
Although idiocy is commonly used in colloquial language to insult or belittle, it is important to recognize that it is not a scientific or clinical term. It should be used with caution and respect, considering the feelings and dignity of others. In a civilized society, it is important to promote understanding and empathy rather than resorting to derogatory terms like idiocy.
Congenital mental deficiency of extreme degree; exaggerated imbecility.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• See idiot.
• State of being an idiot; extreme imbecility, in which reason has been wholly undeveloped, or but partially developed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "idiocy" has its etymology in the Greek language. It comes from the Greek word "idiōtēs" (ἰδιώτης), which referred to a private person or layman who did not hold public office or participate in the affairs of the city-state. Over time, the term developed a negative connotation and began to imply an individual who is ignorant, foolish, or lacking in intelligence. From Greek, the term was adapted into Latin as "idiota", and later made its way into Middle English as "idiocy".
