nigaud

simpleton

noun nee-GOH Rare

Also means

fool

Usage Note

Nigaud is a mildly derogatory term for someone naive or slow-witted, softer than idiot or imbécile. It can be used affectionately between friends or by a parent teasing a child. The feminine form is nigaude, and as an adjective it agrees with its noun, as in un air nigaud (a foolish look).

Examples

"Ne fais pas le nigaud devant tout le monde."

Natural Translation

Don't play the fool in front of everyone.

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