# asininity

/ˌæsəˈnɪnɪti/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/asininity
Updated: 2026-09-20

## Definition

the quality of being extremely foolish or stupid. You use this word to describe an idea or action that makes no sense at all.

For teachers: the quality of being extremely foolish, stupid, or lackadaisical in judgment. Refers to the state of being like an ass or donkey in stubbornness or lack of intellect.

## Examples

- I cannot believe the sheer asininity of this new rule.
- He could not believe the asininity of her decision to quit her job without a backup plan.
- While the debate began with serious policy concerns, it quickly devolved into pure asininity as the candidates began trading petty personal insults.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the adjective 'sheer' or 'pure' to emphasize the degree of foolishness.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.