ignoramus

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day on February 26, 2025, is "ignoramus." An ignoramus is defined as a profoundly ignorant or stupid person. The word's usage is illustrated through an example sentence criticizing someone's poor judgment. The word's origin is discussed, tracing it back to a 17th-century farce. The play's title character, also named Ignoramus, is a foolish lawyer. The Latin meaning of "ignoramus" is "we are ignorant." Historically, "ignoramus" was used in English legal proceedings. It marked indictments lacking sufficient evidence for prosecution. This legal context inspired the play's title. The word's usage highlights the character's lack of intelligence and understanding.