# moron

/ˈmɔˌɹɑn/ (US) · /mˈɔːɹɒn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/moron
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. an idiot

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal · Vulgar

a very insulting word for a person you think is stupid or has done something foolish.

For teachers: a derogatory term for a person perceived as stupid or foolish. While common in informal speech, it is often considered offensive or vulgar depending on the social context.

- Some moron blocked my driveway with their car this morning.
- The critic dismissed the director as a moron, claiming the film lacked even a basic understanding of narrative structure.

Usage: Used as a countable noun, often preceded by 'complete', 'total', or 'absolute' for emphasis.

Teaching tip: This word is much stronger and more offensive than 'silly' or 'foolish'. Learners should be cautious as it can cause genuine anger or be seen as ableist.

### 2. historical medical term

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Technical

an old-fashioned medical word for someone with a learning disability.

For teachers: a historical clinical category for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities, specifically those with an IQ between 50 and 70.

- In the early 1900s, doctors used the word moron as a medical label.
- The eugenics movement of the early twentieth century frequently targeted individuals classified as morons for forced institutionalization.

Usage: Now strictly historical; using this in a modern medical context is considered highly inappropriate.

Teaching tip: Explain to students that many modern insults began as clinical terms. This sense is only found in historical texts or academic discussions about the history of psychology.

## Examples

- He felt like a moron after locking his keys in the car.
- The driver shouted at the man who cut him off, calling him a moron for ignoring the red light.

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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.