What does “fruitcake” mean?
The phrase "fruitcake" means 'a crazy or eccentric person.' When someone refers to someone else as a "fruitcake", they are implying that the person behaves in an odd or unusual manner, often in a way that is perceived as irrational or nonsensical.
How is the expression used in real life?
Learn when and how to use these expressions with these examples!
Example
He's a total fruitcake. You never know what he's going to do next.
He's a total fruitcake. You never know what he's going to do next.
Example
Don't listen to him, he's just a fruitcake with crazy ideas.
Don't listen to him, he's just a fruitcake with crazy ideas.
Example
She's always dressed in bright colors and acting strange, like a real fruitcake.
She's always dressed in bright colors and acting strange, like a real fruitcake.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing someone's eccentric behavior
He's a total fruitcake. You never know what he's going to do next.
He's a total fruitcake. You never know what he's going to do next.
She's always dressed in bright colors and acting strange, like a real fruitcake.
She's always dressed in bright colors and acting strange, like a real fruitcake.
- 2Dismissing someone's ideas as crazy
Don't listen to him, he's just a fruitcake with crazy ideas.
Don't listen to him, he's just a fruitcake with crazy ideas.
His theories are so outlandish, he's like a fruitcake.
His theories are so outlandish, he's like a fruitcake.
- 3Labeling someone as crazy or eccentric
She's a real fruitcake. You never know what she's going to say.
She's a real fruitcake. You never know what she's going to say.
He's always doing weird things, like a total fruitcake.
He's always doing weird things, like a total fruitcake.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The term "fruitcake" originated in the early 20th century and is derived from the idea that fruitcakes, a type of cake containing dried fruits and nuts, are often seen as unusual or eccentric due to their unique ingredients and flavors.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "fruitcake" is typically used within a sentence to describe someone, and it is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The term "fruitcake" can be considered offensive as it is often used to derogatorily describe someone as crazy or eccentric.
Audience for the phrase
The term "fruitcake" is generally used in informal settings and is more commonly understood by older generations who are familiar with the term. However, it is important to note that using this term to describe someone can be offensive and disrespectful.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The term "fruitcake" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is used in English-speaking regions where the term is known and understood.
