useful idiot
The term "useful idiot" originated from political jargon and is often used derogatorily to describe individuals who unwittingly support harmful causes.
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Definition
C1Politics
(derogatory)A person manipulated by a political cause, unknowingly aiding its goals.
Example
- He was called a useful idiot for spreading propaganda without understanding its implications.
C1General
(derogatory)Someone who naively supports a cause, unaware of its true intentions.
Example
- Her efforts to help were seen as those of a useful idiot by critics.