Definition

A very foolish or stupid action, statement, or behavior.

Example

His decision to invest all his savings in that scheme was pure idiocy.

Conversation

Can you believe what he said during the meeting?

I know, right? It was pure idiocy!

I thought we were past that kind of behavior.

Me too, but I guess some people never learn.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Idiocy → It is formed from "idio-" (from Greek "idios", meaning one's own or private) and "-cy" (a suffix denoting a state or condition). The word "idiocy" refers to a state of being one's own, often implying a lack of understanding or intelligence, hence the meaning of foolishness or stupidity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'idios' meaning 'one's own' to remember that 'idiocy' refers to a state of foolishness that is uniquely one's own.

Visually Confused Words