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Definitions

know-nothing

[noh-nuhth-ing] / ˈnoʊˌnʌθ ɪŋ /




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

His know-nothing rabble-rousing appalled progressives who otherwise admired him for his principled stands against the Vietnam War and in favor of campaign finance reform.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 10, 2025

The effort always includes promotional videos, such as one this summer featuring a know-it-all who is exposed as a know-nothing because he doesn’t know where tickets are sold.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 28, 2022

My mom, unlike Akeem, was not a know-nothing blowing her money and trying to fit in by pretending to be working class.

From Slate • Mar. 5, 2021

Hopkins believes we’re all deeply lonely, and acknowledging that, along with our know-nothing state, is liberating.

From Washington Post • Feb. 24, 2021

“These know-nothing kids thinking Ali could’ve taken Joe Louis.”

From "145th Street: Short Stories" by Walter Dean Myers




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