‘A Blinking Idiot’, Meaning & Context

The phrase “a blinking idiot” is a colourful expression used to describe someone perceived as foolish or senseless. The term “blinking” in this context serves as an intensifier, heightening the sense of stupidity attributed to the person. It’s akin to saying “a complete idiot” or “an utter fool,” emphasizing the degree of the person’s perceived lack of intelligence or awareness. The word “blinking” itself doesn’t refer to the physical act of blinking the eyes but is rather a mild expletive, possibly standing in for stronger language.

Origin of “A Blinking Idiot”

The use of “blinking” as an intensifier can be traced back to British slang, where it was often used as a euphemism for stronger, more offensive words – eg. “it’s a blinking shame.” The term “idiot” comes from the Greek word “idiotes,” which referred to a private citizen, or someone not involved in public affairs. Over time, it evolved to mean someone ignorant or lacking in common sense. The combination of “blinking” with “idiot” thus amplifies the insult, making it particularly forceful in its derogation, and typical of the creative and inventive way Shakespeare used language in his plays.

The Shakespeare Connection

The phrase “a blinking idiot” is most famously associated with William Shakespeare’s play “The Merchant of Venice,” written around 1596-1599. In Act 2, Scene 9, the Prince of Arragon uses this term in a soliloquy while he contemplates the choice of gold, silver and lead caskets presented to him. In order to win the hand of Portia he has to choose the the right one. He considers the nature of merit and worth, using the phrase “a blinking idiot” to express his disdain for making a foolish choice. Shakespeare’s use of the term not only highlights the character’s arrogance but also his underlying insecurity about his own worth and judgment. He chooses the silver casket and finds that, instead of the portrait of Portia, which he expects, that it contains a picture of a fool’s head, telling him that he’s an utter fool – a blinking idiot.

A blinking idiot

Use of “Blinking Idiot” in the Cultural World

The term “blinking idiot,” though rooted in Shakespearean literature, has found its way into various facets of cultural expression, including literature, music, art, advertising, and television.

Literature: While the direct usage of “blinking idiot” in modern literature is rare, the term aligns with the kind of colourful language seen in works by authors like Charles Dickens and Anthony Burgess. Dickens’ characters often use vivid, period-specific insults that add authenticity to their dialogue.

Music: The term “blinking idiot” hasn’t been prominently featured in song lyrics, but British bands like The Kinks and The Beatles often incorporated colloquial British slang into their music, reflecting the cultural milieu in which such expressions are commonplace.

Art: Contemporary artists like Banksy use similar expressions in their politically charged street art. While “blinking idiot” may not appear verbatim, the sentiment is evident in works that critique societal and political foolishness.

Advertising: The term “blinking idiot” isn’t commonly used in mainstream advertising, given its mildly offensive nature. However, advertisements often play on similar themes of foolishness and wit, appealing to audiences’ sense of humor and relatability.

Television: British television series such as “Blackadder” and “Fawlty Towers” frequently use exaggerated insults and period-specific language, capturing the essence of expressions like “blinking idiot.” Characters in these shows employ a variety of creative and humorous insults that contribute to the sharp, witty dialogue characteristic of British comedy.

In summary, while “blinking idiot” may not be ubiquitous across all cultural mediums, its spirit persists in the witty, sharp-tongued tradition of British expression, from literature and music to television and art.