space cadet

The term "space cadet" originated from science fiction but has evolved into a slang expression to describe someone who is often distracted or out of touch with reality.

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Definition

C2Science Fiction

(historical, technical)A trainee astronaut, especially in fictional works.

B2Everyday Life

(derogatory, informal)A person who is often forgetful, distracted, or not fully aware of their surroundings.

Example

  • He's such a space cadet; he forgot about our meeting again.
  • Don't be a space cadet—pay attention to the instructions!

B2Slang

(informal, derogatory)Someone who behaves as if they are under the influence of drugs, often appearing disoriented or spaced out.

Example

  • After the party, he was acting like a total space cadet.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "space cadet":

space invaderspace flightrocket shipspaced outspace agedeep spacerocket scientistspace outblast offspace suitflying saucerouter space