simpleminded

adjective

sim·​ple·​mind·​ed ˌsim-pəl-ˈmīn-dəd How to pronounce simpleminded (audio)
ˈsim-pəl-ˌmīn-
: devoid of subtlety : unsophisticated
also : foolish
simplemindedly adverb
simplemindedness noun

Examples of simpleminded in a Sentence

a superstitious and very simpleminded man He took a simpleminded approach to the problem.
Recent Examples on the Web Tranquillity, often simple but rarely simpleminded, may be Ruscha’s essential quality as an artist. Jackson Arn, The New Yorker, 2 Oct. 2023 But in general election terms, impeachment is a boon for the Democrats, which is why McCarthy is desperately trying to slow-walk these simpleminded drives for vengeance. Walter Shapiro, The New Republic, 7 July 2023 American democracy, as in the Electoral College, accommodates considerations more complex than simpleminded majoritarianism. George Will, chicagotribune.com, 3 May 2018 And with a smirking Clint Eastwood as the soldier, the story—which Cullinan told entirely from the points of view of the women—became a simpleminded demonstration of how devious women are. Charles Taylor, Newsweek, 22 June 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'simpleminded.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1749, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of simpleminded was in 1749

Dictionary Entries Near simpleminded

Cite this Entry

“Simpleminded.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simpleminded. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

simpleminded

adjective
sim·​ple·​mind·​ed ˌsim-pəl-ˈmīn-dəd How to pronounce simpleminded (audio)
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