Does the Word Dunce Mean?

: a slow-witted or stupid person.

What is the origin of the word dunce?

The word dunce comes from a thirteenth century Scottish philosopher, John Duns Scotus, whose resistance to new ideas and mystical beliefs inspired opponents to equate his followers, the "Duns disciples," to "dullards." Later, some teachers made children wear pointed paper "dunce caps" when they misbehaved.

How can you use the word dunce in a sentence?

Dunce in a Sentence ?
  1. Because it takes me a long time to solve the problems, I am a dunce at mathematics.
  2. My boyfriend is a dunce when it comes to learning how to cook.
  3. My mother was not happy when I told her the teacher called me a dunce. ...
  4. I feel like such a dunce when it comes to understanding technology.
Elena Rostova

Elena Rostova

Lead Health, Wellness & Medical Journalist

Elena Rostova holds a Master's degree in Public Health Journalism. She covers groundbreaking medical research, holistic wellness trends, mental health awareness, and nutritional science.