brainiac

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whiz

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=d2hpeg&hash=ba8a72d3630331d9ab3d2dcab182edffab758ce1&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

quick on the uptake

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A nerd is a student who is often seen as socially awkward or overly focused on their studies or specific interests, such as academics, technology, or science. This person may spend a lot of time studying or engaging in activities that are considered less popular among their peers. As a result, they may be subject to ridicule or teasing from others. While the term has historically been used in a negative way, it can also refer to someone with deep knowledge or expertise in a particular area.

Who is a "nerd"?

nerd

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geek

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big brain

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The origin of the idiom "on the ball" can be traced back to sports, particularly ball games such as soccer or basketball. In these games, being "on the ball" refers to a player who is actively engaged in the game, attentive to the ball's movements, and ready to react quickly. Over time, the expression began to be used to describe individuals who exhibit a similar level of alertness, attentiveness, and readiness in non-sporting situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "on the ball" and when to use it?

on the ball

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The idiom "smart cookie" has been in use for quite some time, and it likely emerged as a metaphorical expression that compares someone's intelligence or cleverness to a cookie. This expression is typically used in a positive and admiring manner to acknowledge someone's intelligence, wit, or ability to navigate situations effectively.

What is the origin of the idiom "smart cookie" and when to use it?

(smart|sharp) cookie

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The idiom "think on one's feet" is derived from the idea of someone quickly and effectively making decisions or solving problems in a dynamic and fast-paced situation, such as in a conversation, presentation, or an unexpected challenge. It is often used to describe the ability to respond rapidly and adapt to changing circumstances without much preparation. This idiom highlights a person's skill in making smart, immediate decisions.

What is the origin of the idiom "think on one's feet" and when to use it?

to [think] on {one's} feet

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galaxy-brain

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the brains of the operation

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"Doofus" is American slang that appeared in the mid-20th century, likely influenced by humorous or comic speech patterns, possibly echoing the sound of "doughface" or nonsense words. It came to describe someone acting silly, foolish, or lacking common sense. The term is used in informal speech, often teasingly or in lighthearted insults. It is mildly derogatory but generally playful rather than harsh or offensive.

What is the origin of the term "doofus" and how is it used?

doofus

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"Dork" is an English slang term that appeared in the mid-20th century, around the 1960s, originally in American youth culture. Its exact origin is unclear, but it may have developed as a mild, humorous insult for someone socially awkward or foolish. Over time, it came to describe a person considered unpopular, lacking social finesse, or overly enthusiastic about unfashionable interests. The term is used in informal, often teasing or playful contexts, particularly among peers. It is mildly derogatory but not vulgar, and in modern usage it can sometimes be reclaimed or used affectionately.

What is the origin of the term "dork" and how is it used?

dork

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"Airhead" is an English slang term that appeared in the mid-20th century, likely in the 1960s–1970s. It combines "air," suggesting emptiness, with "head" to metaphorically describe someone whose mind seems vacant or lacking substance. The term is used to describe a person who is forgetful, absent-minded, or not very intelligent, often in informal, teasing, or lightly critical contexts. It is mildly derogatory but not vulgar, typically intended as a humorous or casual insult rather than a severe attack.

What is the origin of the term "airhead" and how is it used?

airhead

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ditz

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brain-dead

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YnJhaW4tZGVhZA&hash=2e321c1f1a834dc23fb793566098dd1c19c4aacc&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

to [lack] brain cells

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"Smooth brain" is a slang term used to describe a person considered unintelligent, dull, or lacking common sense. It comes from the idea that the brain's folds (gyri and sulci) are associated with intelligence, so a "smooth" brain implies a lack of mental complexity. The term emerged in online and meme culture in the 2010s, often humorously or mockingly to highlight mistakes, naivety, or ignorance. It is mildly to moderately derogatory, mostly playful or teasing, and is used in informal, digital, or social contexts rather than as a deeply serious insult.

What is the origin of the term "smooth brain" and how is it used?

smooth brain

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wrinkly brain

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pea brain

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cGVhIGJyYWlu&hash=659c166a33186221a7743b25e6e8daf858449b16&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=NDA0&hash=7f0b4c5ee4ca60c528dd11be8830fadac09563e2&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=NDEx&hash=0983a14e7777221c48e1237e8bdc8bb6b1a0aa86&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

Here you will find slang for intelligence and mental ability, reflecting casual ways people describe smarts, wit, and cognitive skills.

Intelligence & Mental Ability

English Slang for Intelligence & Mental Ability