"Dunce" is an English term that dates back to the 16th century, originally derived from the name of the Scottish scholar John Duns (Duns Scotus), whose followers were called "Duns men." Over time, opponents of his philosophy used "dunce" as a term for someone stubbornly ignorant or unable to learn. By the 17th–18th centuries, it came to mean a slow learner or someone lacking intelligence. The term is mostly used in educational or informal contexts to criticize learning ability, often in a mildly derogatory but non-vulgar way, sometimes humorously.

What is the origin of the term "dunce" and how is it used?

Définition et signification de « dunce » en anglais

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