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Definition of obtuseness

obtuseness

/əbˈtuːsnəs/
ob · tuse · ness
Adverb:obtusely
•
Adjective:obtuse
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obtuseness Lexical Profile

obtuseness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being slow to understand, insensitive, or lacking in intellectual acuity.

Example

"The critic's deliberate obtuseness prevented him from appreciating the subtle irony of the play."

2

The quality of having a blunt edge, rounded point, or an angle greater than 90 degrees.

Example

"The slight obtuseness of the blade made it unsuitable for delicate surgical incisions."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for obtuseness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for obtuseness

• Rhymes for obtuseness

• Nearby Words

obtrusive
obtuse
obtusely
obtuseness
obverse
obvious
obviously

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'obtuse' (from Latin 'obtusus', meaning 'blunted' or 'dull', past participle of 'obtundere', 'to beat against') combined with the native suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Obtuseness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/obtuseness
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