Definition of brain-deadnext
as in dumb
not having or showing an ability to absorb ideas readily it seems like she's always doing some brain-dead thing or another

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of brain-dead As good fortune, karma or just a brain-dead decision would have it, Eagles punt returner Xavier Gipson decided returning a punt from his own 2-yard line was a great idea. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Nov. 2025 He was delivered by Caesarian section because a donor heart became available from a brain-dead baby in Canada. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Oct. 2025 Doctors later told the family that Samuel is brain-dead and remains unresponsive. Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2025 A week later, he was taken to surgery to have his organs removed for donation — even though his heart was beating and he hadn’t been declared brain-dead, Zohny said. Cara Anthony, Miami Herald, 13 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for brain-dead
Recent Examples of Synonyms for brain-dead
Adjective
  • Proof is just smart enough without risking making anyone feel dumb.
    Sara Holdren, Vulture, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Trump has routinely mocked his political opponents and critics as crazy or dumb.
    Joseph Konig, PEOPLE, 17 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Doxxing is just a form of stupid bullying, not free speech.
    DP Opinion, Denver Post, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Healey must think ratepayers – who are burdened with some of the highest energy costs in the country – are pretty stupid and simple minded.
    Joe Battenfeld, Boston Herald, 16 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • He is limited on passing downs and is more of a slow-burn pocket pusher than a man with a plan.
    Tobias Bass, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
  • In some cases, lenders may cover the costs of buydown for you (either partially or in full), if the market is particularly slow.
    Aly J Yale, CBS News, 24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The overall aesthetic was slightly ascetic without being spartan—a pale, neutral color palette; simple, modern furniture; a few pieces of abstract art.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Apr. 2026
  • This translates to the Gap cardigan sweater and the Levi’s shorts paired with the flats for a simple, slightly elevated look that feels comfortable.
    Isis Briones, Travel + Leisure, 22 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Brain-dead.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/brain-dead. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster