Dunce

Pronunciation: /dʌns/

Definitions of dunce

noun a person who is slow at learning; a stupid person

Example Sentences

A1 The teacher called Timmy a dunce because he couldn't solve the simple math problem.

A2 The dunce in the class always sits in the back and struggles with reading.

B1 Despite being labeled a dunce in school, Sarah worked hard and eventually graduated with honors.

B2 The professor was surprised to discover that the student he had dismissed as a dunce was actually a genius in disguise.

C1 The renowned scientist was once considered a dunce in school, but he went on to make groundbreaking discoveries in his field.

C2 The author's memoir revealed that he had been unfairly labeled a dunce by his teachers, but he proved them wrong by becoming a successful writer.

Examples of dunce in a Sentence

formal The teacher scolded the student for behaving like a dunce in class.

informal Don't be a dunce, just follow the instructions carefully.

slang He's such a dunce, always messing things up.

figurative The CEO was seen as a dunce by his employees for making poor decisions.

Grammatical Forms of dunce

• past tense: dunced
• plural: dunces
• comparative: more dunce
• superlative: most dunce
• present tense: dunces
• future tense: will dunce
• perfect tense: have dunced
• continuous tense: is duncing
• singular: dunce
• positive degree: dunce
• infinitive: to dunce
• gerund: duncing
• participle: dunced

Origin and Evolution of dunce

First Known Use: 1530 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'dunce' originated from the name of the medieval Scholastic philosopher John Duns Scotus, who was known for his subtle and complex arguments.

Evolution of the word: Originally used as a term of ridicule for followers of Duns Scotus, the word 'dunce' evolved to refer to someone considered slow-witted or foolish.