Search Dictionary
Definition of nitwit

nitwit

/ˈnɪt.wɪt/
nit · wit
Plural:nitwits
•
Adjective:nitwitted
JUMP TO:

nitwit Lexical Profile

nitwit Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A silly, foolish, or scatterbrained person (used informally).

Example

"Only a complete nitwit would forget to lock the front door before leaving for a two-week vacation."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for nitwit
Antonyms
View all antonyms for nitwit

• Nearby Words

nitroglycerin
nitrous
nitrox
nitwit
nitwitted
nix
no

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 20th century, 'nitwit' is likely a compound of 'nit' (a louse egg, used metaphorically for something tiny or worthless, or possibly influenced by Yiddish or German 'nit' meaning 'not') and 'wit' (intelligence).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nitwit. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nitwit
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.