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dim

When used to describe a person's intelligence, "dim" is an informal term. It is generally considered a mild insult rather than a harsh one. As a verb, "dim" can be used for both physical light and abstract feelings (like hope or enthusiasm), though it is most common when referring to lighting.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon in the office, Jessica is trying to organize a presentation while Mark is procrastinating.

Jessica

Why is your screen so dim? I can't see the slides from here.

Mark

My bad. Just trying to fly under the radar until 5.

💡

Jessica is stressed about the visibility of the presentation, while Mark uses the idiom 'fly under the radar' to describe his attempt to avoid being noticed or given more work by his manager.

Meanings

adjective

Not shining brightly or lit with very little light.

"The room was lit by a dim lamp in the corner."

adjective

Not clear or distinct; faint.

"I have a dim recollection of meeting him years ago."

adjective

Mentally slow or lacking in intelligence.

"He's a bit dim when it comes to social cues."

verb (transitive)

To make a light less bright.

"She dimmed the lights before starting the movie."

verb (intransitive)

To become less bright or lose intensity.

"The glow of the embers slowly dimmed as the night grew colder."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026•Report an Error