Definition

Describing someone who is slow to understand or lacks intelligence; foolish or dull-witted.

Example

The doltish remarks made by the comedian left the audience confused rather than amused.

Conversation

Did you see how doltish he was during the quiz today?

Yeah, it was surprising how he mixed up the answers!

I know, right? I mean, he usually does better than that.

Maybe he was just having an off day, but it was pretty funny.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Doltish → It is formed from "dolt" (from Middle English *dolt*, meaning a dull or stupid person) and the suffix "-ish" (meaning having the quality of). The word "doltish" describes someone who has the qualities of a dolt, or is foolish and slow-witted.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'dolt' as someone who is dull or slow, and the '-ish' means having that quality. So, doltish helps you remember someone who is foolish or lacking intelligence.

Visually Confused Words