What is the difference between "Simple" and "Simpleton"?

Many people think the word “simple” and “simpleton” are similar because of the similarities in the spellings, but these words are not identical in meaning. The word “simple” means to be easily understood. It means something that is not difficult. When you say something is simple, it means it is not complicated.

The word “simpleton” means someone that is described as “foolish” or “gullible.” A person said to lack common sense or intelligence. Synonyms to this word are – dummy, dimwit, and moron. The opposite of the word simpleton is a genius. I hope you find this information helpful.

Some may assume that the words simple and simpleton are related to each other because of the similarities in their names but actually, they are different from each other. Simpleton is known to be a noun. This means that a person lacks the common sense to do what is right. Simple, on the other hand, is known to be an adjective.

This is used to describe someone who does not want to make any fuss when doing things. Instead of being extravagant, someone may act in a very simple manner. The word simple is normally used as a compliment while when someone is called a simpleton, this might mean that the person is already bordering on being a fool.