English Language WordTools.ai BETA

Definition of «crackpot»

The term "crackpot" is a derogatory term used to describe someone who has an idea or belief that is considered foolish, illogical, or unreasonable. The term originated in the 19th century when cracked pots were often sold as cheap souvenirs at fairs and markets. If a pot was particularly unsightly or poorly made, it would be referred to as a "crackpot," meaning that it was worthless or useless. In modern usage, the term is used to describe someone whose ideas are considered ridiculous or absurd, often in relation to politics, science, or other areas of expertise.

Usage examples

  1. The politician's latest statement was downright crackpot, claiming that aliens are secretly controlling the government.
  2. The professor dismissed the student's crackpot theory that the moon landing was a hoax, providing ample evidence to the contrary.
  3. The internet is filled with crackpot theories about time travel, from building a homemade time machine to conspiracies involving famous historical figures.
  4. I avoid engaging in arguments with crackpot conspiracy theorists who believe that the Earth is flat and that everyone else is part of a massive cover-up.
  5. The self-proclaimed psychic's predictions were nothing more than crackpot guesses, lacking any scientific evidence or credibility.

Phrases with «crackpot»

Sentences with «crackpot»

  • We also explored another round of Crackpot Theories and gave away our final mini-poster! (screenpicks.com)
  • Is also the mantra of flat earthers, 9/11 truthers, birthers, moon landing deniers, and all other purveyors of crackpot conspiracy theories like «he baited her into being violent towards him because he knew a passerby would call the police and get an investigation started that would lead to charges being considered against her in order to get her fired from her job with the endgame goal of, I don't know, making her jointhe lizard people or something?» (sbnation.com)
  • Sometimes this strategy is called insisting on «sound science» (that's the code - phrase), which means in practice: we will accept any random crackpot idea if it supports us, and if there is a strong scientific consensus that we don't like, «sound science» requires that we study it more until it becomes 100 % certain, or if necessary, even better: — RRB - before any decisions would be made, i.e., preferably never. (realclimate.org)
  • (see all sentences)

See also

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z