Langimage
English

slow-witted

|slow-wit-ted|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌsloʊˈwɪtɪd/

🇬🇧

/ˌsləʊˈwɪtɪd/

mentally slow

Etymology
Etymology Information

'slow-witted' originates from the combination of 'slow' and 'witted', where 'slow' meant 'not quick' and 'witted' referred to 'having mental faculties'.

Historical Evolution

'slow-witted' evolved from the Old English word 'slaw' meaning 'slow' and 'witt' meaning 'mind or understanding', eventually forming the modern English term 'slow-witted'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'having a slow mind', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

lacking quickness of mind; not mentally sharp.

He was often considered slow-witted, but he had a unique perspective on problems.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35