dumb 1 of 2

Definition of dumbnext
1
as in stupid
not having or showing an ability to absorb ideas readily don't call him dumb just because he makes the occasional mistake like the rest of us

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2

dumb

2 of 2

verb

as in to mute
to stop the noise or speech of the terrible news dumbed her for a long moment, and then she burst into tears

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective dumb contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of dumb are crass, dense, dull, and stupid. While all these words mean "lacking in power to absorb ideas or impressions," dumb applies to an exasperating obtuseness or lack of comprehension.

too dumb to figure out what's going on

When would crass be a good substitute for dumb?

While in some cases nearly identical to dumb, crass suggests a grossness of mind precluding discrimination or delicacy.

a crass, materialistic people

Where would dense be a reasonable alternative to dumb?

The synonyms dense and dumb are sometimes interchangeable, but dense implies a thickheaded imperviousness to ideas.

too dense to take a hint

In what contexts can dull take the place of dumb?

Although the words dull and dumb have much in common, dull suggests a slow or sluggish mind such as results from disease, depression, or shock.

monotonous work that leaves the mind dull

When is stupid a more appropriate choice than dumb?

While the synonyms stupid and dumb are close in meaning, stupid implies a slow-witted or dazed state of mind that may be either congenital or temporary.

stupid students just keeping the seats warm
stupid with drink

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 dumb
Adjective
The Commodore Callback 8020 takes advantage of reinvigorated interest in dumb phones. Scharon Harding, ArsTechnica, 16 June 2026 The truth in this case — as is often true — is specific, chaotic, at times just dumb. Ben Smith, semafor.com, 15 June 2026
Verb
His commentary is equally free of snobbery and of attempts to dumb anything down. David Denby, New Yorker, 20 July 2025 Where conspiracies dumb us down to eventually believe that nothing is actually true? S.e. Cupp, New York Daily News, 4 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dumb
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dumb
Adjective
  • But even the most perfect Constitution can be undone by the wicked with the help of the bought, the stupid, and the cowardly.
    Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026
  • White can believe Hokit said something stupid and still believe fighters should be allowed to speak for themselves.
    Dan Zaksheske OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • While Kafka is a bit more of a reserved personality, he’s been described as a coach who’s personable and can work with anyone.
    Colton Pouncy, New York Times, 17 June 2026
  • Even in recordings from the ’90s, Alfa displays a reserved but expressive personality, and a talent for fusing disparate sounds fluidly together.
    H.D. Angel, Pitchfork, 16 June 2026
Verb
  • Yet because tax law provides commercial property owners little incentive to redevelop, and high fees further punish anyone trying to build housing, the effect of these reforms has been muted.
    Nolan Gray, Oc Register, 21 June 2026
  • This guest channels major Chloé energy by styling belted, muted pink jeans with a romantic yet structured ruffled blouse, platform clogs, round sunnies, and a top-handle bag.
    Amanda Le, InStyle, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • The Virgo moon invites you to take a slower pace today.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 20 June 2026
  • The Targaryen civil war has been a bit of a slow burn so far, though both sides of the family have suffered major casualties.
    Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
Adjective
  • At first, the fins were tasteful and restrained, adding jet-age glamour to post-war American cars.
    Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026
  • Material choices are homey and restrained—soft woods, neutral fabrics, and sculptural artwork chosen during frequent meetings between the designers and clients—creating a quieter, more private atmosphere than the communal areas elsewhere onboard.
    Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 16 June 2026
Verb
  • As the moment unfolded, Savannah shushed the future king and even briefly placed her hand over his mouth in an effort to keep him composed.
    Staff Author, InStyle, 13 June 2026
  • Trae Young won Madison Square Garden’s undying enmity in the 2021 playoffs for the Atlanta Hawks, punctuating game-breaking shots by shushing the crowd or bowing to the fans and waving goodbye.
    Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 9 June 2026
Adjective
  • The questions Campbell needs to answer are simple.
    Peter Lucas, Boston Herald, 25 June 2026
  • Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple.
    Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • In one game, away to Leeds United, those two were positioned on the corners of the City six-yard box at goal kicks, rather than the centre-backs, and were charged with taking as many touches as necessary to play through the opposition press and quiet the Elland Road crowd.
    Sam Lee, New York Times, 23 June 2026
  • For most of the four-game series against the A’s, Angels pitching had been able to quiet the bat of first baseman Nick Kurtz.
    Jason Burke, Oc Register, 21 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Dumb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dumb. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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