feeble-minded

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

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Contents 1 English 1.1 Adjective 1.1.1 Usage notes 1.1.2 Related terms 1.1.3 Translations 1.2 References

[edit] English

[edit] Adjective

feeble-minded (comparative more feeble-minded, superlative most feeble-minded)

1. Weak in intellectual power; wanting firmness or constancy; lacking intelligence; irresolute; vacillating; imbecile.

[edit] Usage notes

This term was used loosely in the late 19th and the early 20th century to describe a variety of mental deficiencies, often in a medical context (as were cretin, idiot, imbecile and moron). It was originally not meant to be considered a pejorative term. By the mid-20th century, it was no longer used in medical contexts and became considered a pejorative.

[edit] Related terms

• feeble-mindedly
• feeble-mindedness

[edit] Translations

• French: faible d'esprit

[edit] References

• feeble-minded in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913