Looking up...
lacking intelligence or good judgment
It was stupid of me to forget my keys.
An admission of a careless mistake.
The movie was so stupid it was funny.
Describes something intentionally ridiculous or absurd.
Often used humorously or affectionately in casual speech.
causing dismay or shock
The price was stupidly high.
Emphasizes extreme or unreasonable cost.
Less common than the primary meaning.
Use 'silly' or 'unwise' instead of 'stupid' when criticizing someone's actions to sound less harsh.
In playful contexts (e.g., teasing friends), 'stupid' can be lighthearted. In serious or professional settings, opt for neutral alternatives.
From Latin *stupidus* ('stunned, amazed, dull'), from *stupere* ('to be stunned'). Entered English in the 16th century with the sense of 'mentally slow' or 'lacking sensitivity'.
Considered informal and potentially offensive. Use 'silly' or 'unwise' in formal contexts. Tone varies by context—can be playful or derogatory.