witling (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Witling is a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/wɪt.lɪŋ/

Meaning and Usage

The term "witling" refers to a person who is witty, often someone who is clever but lacks true intelligence or depth. It is often used in a slightly disparaging context to imply that the person is superficial in their witticisms or clever remarks.

In English, "witling" is relatively infrequent and more often found in written contexts, such as literature or formal writing, than in everyday oral speech.

Example Sentences

1. The witling entertained the guests with his clever quips but failed to engage them in meaningful conversation.
   Этот остроумец развлекал гостей своими ловкими шутками, но не смог вовлечь их в содержательную беседу.

2. Many consider him a witling who relies on puns rather than genuine humor.
   Многие считают его остроумцем, который полагается на каламбуры, а не на искренний юмор.

3. The story ridiculed the witling, exposing the emptiness behind his seemingly clever remarks.
   История осмеивала остроумца, разоблачая пустоту его, казалось бы, остроумных замечаний.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "witling" is not directly associated with a broad range of idiomatic expressions, it can often be referenced in contexts discussing intelligence or superficial wit. Here are a few sentences incorporating related idioms:

1. "He's got a sharp wit, but beneath that facade of a witling, there’s little substance."
   У него остроумный ум, но под этой маской остроумца мало субстанции.

2. "Don't be a witling; sometimes, silence speaks louder than shallow jokes."
   Не будь остроумцем; иногда тишина говорит громче, чем поверхностные шутки.

3. "A witling may dazzle you with puns, but a true intellectual leaves you with thought."
   Остроумец может ослепить тебя каламбурами, но настоящий интеллектуал оставит тебе раздумья.

Etymology

The word "witling" originates from the combination of "wit," which refers to the ability to think quickly and produce clever remarks, and the diminutive suffix "-ling," which often suggests a lesser version of something. Thus, "witling" suggests a lesser or trivial form of wit.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:
- Smart aleck
- Wisecracker
- Boaster

Antonyms:
- Simpleton
- Dunce
- Fool

In summary, "witling" describes a person whose wit is present but lacking in depth, often emphasizing the superficial nature of their cleverness. It is not a common term in everyday speech but may appear in literary discussions about wit and intelligence.