Definition

Describing something that is blunt or rounded, or referring to a person or remark that is not very smart or sensitive.

Example

His obtuse comments during the meeting frustrated everyone.

Conversation

Did you hear that comment he made during the meeting?

Yeah, it was pretty obtuse for the situation.

I know, right? It totally missed the point.

Exactly, sometimes he just doesn’t get it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obtuse → It is derived from the Latin word "obtusus" (meaning blunt or dull), which is the past participle of "obtundere" (meaning to beat against or to dull). The word "obtuse" refers to something that is not sharp or is dull in angle, as well as metaphorically describing a lack of quickness in understanding.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'dull' or 'blunt' — that's why obtuse describes angles that are not sharp and can also refer to someone who is slow to understand.

Visually Confused Words