Wingnut

Origin

wing + nut.

Full definition of wingnut

Noun

1. A nut having wing-like projections so that it can be turned easily by hand.
2. A deciduous tree of the genus native to Asia.
3. (slang, derogatory) Someone with crazy or extreme political views (especially extreme conservative views).
4. (slang, derogatory, North American itinerant and street populations) A mentally ill homeless person.
5. (slang, derogatory) Someone perceived as odd, eccentric, and/or extreme.
6. (slang, rural US) A member of the air force (in a town that hosts a USAF installation).

Synonyms

• (nut with wings) wing nut, thumbnut
• (tree of the genus Pterocarya)
• (odd or eccentric person) nut case, crank, weirdo
• (person of extreme political beliefs) extremist, radical; winger

Derived terms

• wingnuttery
• wingnutty

Coordinate terms

• moonbat