meathead: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Medium (recognised, but not highly frequent in formal contexts)Informal, slang, derogatory
Quick answer
What does “meathead” mean?
A stupid or foolish person, especially one who is physically strong but not intelligent.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A stupid or foolish person, especially one who is physically strong but not intelligent.
A pejorative term for someone perceived as dull, unthinking, or slow-witted. Originally linked to the stereotype of a muscle-bound, unintelligent athlete or labourer.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term originated and is primarily used in American English, though it is understood in British English through cultural exposure.
Connotations
In both varieties, it strongly connotes stupidity linked to physicality. In the US, it is a classic, somewhat dated insult; in the UK, it may sound like an Americanism.
Frequency
More frequently used and recognised in American English. In British English, synonyms like "numpty" or "plonker" might be more common in equivalent contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “meathead” in a Sentence
He's a (total/real) meathead.Don't be such a meathead.You meathead!Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Extremely rare and inappropriate; would be considered highly unprofessional.
Academic
Not used; considered non-standard slang.
Everyday
Used in informal, often male-oriented, teasing or insulting contexts (e.g., sports, gym, among friends).
Technical
Not used in any technical register.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “meathead”
- Using it in formal writing or situations.
- Spelling as two words: "meat head".
- Using it to describe someone who is simply strong but intelligent.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is derogatory and insulting, but it sits in the mid-range of offensiveness. It's less harsh than profanity but stronger than mild teasing terms like 'silly'. Context is key—among friends it can be playful, but used seriously it is an insult.
While technically possible, it is strongly gendered and almost exclusively used to refer to men, as it historically stereotypes masculine physicality. Using it for a woman would be unusual and could be perceived as misogynistic.
It is an American slang compound of 'meat' (suggesting brawn, physical substance) + 'head'. It gained popularity in the mid-20th century. The character 'Meathead' (Mike Stivic) from the 1970s TV show 'All in the Family' cemented its cultural recognition.
Virtually none. Its core meaning is pejorative. However, in very specific, ironic contexts (e.g., a self-deprecating joke or a fictional character described as a 'lovable meathead'), the insult can be softened by affection or humour, but the negative connotation of stupidity remains.
A stupid or foolish person, especially one who is physically strong but not intelligent.
Meathead is usually informal, slang, derogatory in register.
Meathead: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmiːthɛd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmiːthɛd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a bodybuilder whose biceps are so huge they've taken over his head, replacing his brain with muscle (meat). A head full of meat = a meathead.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE MIND IS A BODY PART / STUPIDITY IS LACK OF SUBSTANCE IN THE HEAD (the head is filled with inferior material - meat - instead of a brain).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would calling someone a 'meathead' be LEAST appropriate?