dumb
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dʌm/
KK: /dʌm/
adjective
Definition
Not able to speak or lacking intelligence; often used to describe someone who makes foolish decisions.
Example
He made a dumb mistake by not studying for the exam.
Conversation
I can't believe I made such a dumb mistake on my test.
Don't worry, we all have those moments sometimes.
Yeah, but it felt really dumb when I saw the answers later.
Just learn from it and move on — you'll do better next time!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stupid
foolish
mute
Antonyms
smart
intelligent
articulate
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone unable to speak or silent.
Example
The loud noise dumbed the crowd, leaving them speechless.
Tense Forms
Past: dumbed
Past Participle: dumbed
Conversation
Did you see the way he tried to dumb the conversation down?
Yeah, it was kind of awkward, wasn't it?
I mean, we all want to understand, but he just made it worse by trying to dumb it down.
Root Explanation
The word 'dumb' originates from Old English 'dumb', meaning unable to speak or silent. It is related to the Proto-Germanic '*dumbaz', which also means mute or silent. The word has evolved to describe someone who is unable to speak or, in modern usage, lacking intelligence.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word for silent or unable to speak — that's why 'dumb' refers to someone who cannot speak.
Visually Confused Words
dum
dub
bedumb