Asinine

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈæs.ɪ.naɪn/, /ˈæs.É™.naɪn/
• Rhymes: -aɪn

Origin

From Latin asinīnus ("of a donkey or ass").

Full definition of asinine

Adjective

1. Failing to exercise intelligence or judgment; ridiculously below average rationality.
• 1922, w, “Piracy”: A Romantic Chronicle of These Days Chapter 2/2/2, They danced on silently, softly. Their feet played tricks to the beat of the tireless measure, that exquisitely asinine blare which is England's punishment for having lost America.
2. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of donkeys.

Synonyms

• (failing to exercise intelligence or judgment) foolish, obstinate

Derived terms

• asininely
• asininity