CRETINOUS Meaning and
Definition
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The adjective "cretinous" is defined as a derogatory term to describe someone or something that exhibits extreme stupidity, lack of intelligence, or mental retardation. It is derived from the medical term "cretinism," which refers to a congenital condition resulting in stunted physical and mental development, caused by severe deficiency of thyroid hormone during fetal development or early infancy.
When applied figuratively, the term "cretinous" denotes an individual with extremely impaired cognitive abilities or someone who displays a remarkably foolish, ignorant, or idiotic behavior. It implies an inherent or permanent lack of intelligence, often accompanied by a deficiency in judgment, common sense, or reasoning skills. Cretinous individuals are typically considered to be dull, witless, or intellectually challenged, exhibiting a profound inability to comprehend or grasp concepts.
Due to the negative connotations associated with the word, its usage can be considered offensive, disrespectful, or insensitive, as it discriminates against individuals with mental disabilities. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution when using this term, ensuring that it is reserved for situations when there is no other suitable alternative, and avoiding the possibility of inflicting hurt or perpetuating stereotypes.
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Relating to cretinism or a cretin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CRETINOUS
Etymology of CRETINOUS
The word "cretinous" comes from the term "cretin", which was originally used to describe a person with a medical condition called cretinism. Cretinism is a congenital disorder that results in physical and mental stunting due to insufficient thyroid hormone in early childhood. The term "cretin" is derived from the French word "crétin" and the Swiss-French word "crétin" or "chrétien", which mean "Christian" in English. The exact origin of this association with Christianity is not entirely clear, but some theories suggest that it may have been used to express pity or sympathy for those affected by the condition, as they were often seen as innocent and needing help. Eventually, the term "cretinous" emerged as an adjective to describe someone or something that exhibits stupidity, foolishness, or lacking common sense.
Similar spelling words for CRETINOUS
- creatin,
- croatian,
- creation,
- cretan,
- craton,
- croton oil,
- creationism,
- crotonbug,
- croton,
- cretin,
- Chretien,
- creeden,
- cretinism.
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