From Latin fatuus ('foolish, insipid, idiotic'), possibly related to fari ('to speak') in the sense of speaking thoughtlessly. Related to infatuate (to make foolish with passion) and the noun fatuity ('pointless foolishness'). The word entered English in the 17th century, retaining the Latin connotation of a vacuous or complacent foolishness.
What does fatuous mean?
Fatuous means foolish or silly in a self-satisfied, vacuous way — especially with a smug, blissfully unaware air. A fatuous comment is not just pointless; it is made by someone who seems pleased with themselves despite saying nothing of value.
What is the difference between fatuous and futile?
Fatuous and futile are commonly confused. Fatuous means foolishly self-satisfied or complacently inane. Futile means useless or unlikely to achieve any result. 'A fatuous remark' = a foolish remark made smugly; 'a futile attempt' = an attempt with no chance of success.
What is the noun form of fatuous?
The noun form is fatuity, meaning foolish or pointless behaviour or remarks. For example: 'the fatuity of the argument was obvious to everyone'. Fatuousness is also used, though fatuity is more formal.
What are synonyms for fatuous?
Close synonyms include: inane (empty, senseless), vacuous (empty-headed), vapid (lacking liveliness or intelligence), asinine (extremely foolish), witless (lacking intelligence). All suggest a lack of intelligence, but fatuous specifically adds a note of complacency or smugness.
Where does the word fatuous come from?
From Latin fatuus, meaning foolish, insipid, or idiotic. The Latin root may be connected to fari (to speak), suggesting thoughtless speech. Related words in English include infatuate (to inspire an unreasoning passion) and the noun fatuity.