IMBECILE Meaning and
Definition
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Imbecile is a derogatory term used to describe an individual who displays a severe lack of intelligence or mental capacity. The term is derived from the Latin word "imbecillus," meaning weak or feeble-minded. An imbecile is generally considered to have a significantly below-average intellectual functioning.
In psychological and medical contexts, imbecile is an outdated term that was previously used to classify individuals with an IQ score ranging from 26 to 50, placing them on the lower end of the intelligence spectrum. However, in modern times, the term is no longer recognized or used within the field of psychology, as it is considered offensive and stigmatizing.
Outside of clinical contexts, imbecile is often utilized as an insult or pejorative term to belittle and demean someone's intellectual abilities. It implies that the person in question is extremely foolish, lacking common sense, and incapable of rational thought or understanding.
It is important to note that using imbecile to describe someone is highly disrespectful and insensitive. People have different cognitive abilities, and using such derogatory language perpetuates discrimination and marginalization. It is encouraged to use respectful and inclusive language when referring to individuals with cognitive differences.
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1. Mentally deficient. 2. One who is congenitally weak-minded, yet not wholly incapable of education; a mental defective not advancing beyond the Binet age of 7 years; see idiot and moron.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• One who is destitute of strength either of body or mind.
• Weak; infirm; destitute of strength of either body or mind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Other Common Misspellings for IMBECILE
Etymology of IMBECILE
The word "imbecile" has an interesting etymology. It originated from the Latin term "imbecillus", which means "weak" or "feeble". "Imbecillus" itself was a combination of the prefix "im-" meaning "not" or "without", and the Latin word "baculum" meaning "a stick" or "a staff". Thus, "imbecillus" suggested someone without a staff or support, metaphorically implying a lack of mental or physical strength. The term slowly made its way into Old French as "imbecile", which eventually entered English and became the word we know today. Over time, "imbecile" has come to denote a person with significantly impaired intellectual abilities or deficiency.
Similar spelling words for IMBECILE
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