minchione

idiot; fool

noun meen-KYOH-neh Rare

Usage Note

Minchione is a vulgar-register insult (though milder than its root minchia) meaning a gullible fool or blockhead, common in central and southern Italy. It can be used with grudging affection between close friends but is offensive to strangers. The feminine minchiona exists but is less frequent.

Examples

"Non fare il minchione!"

Natural Translation

Don't be an idiot!

Literal Translation

Don't make the fool!

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