bêtise

[ be-teez ]

noun

1. lack of understanding, perception, or the like; stupidity.
2. a stupid or foolish act or remark.
3. something inconsequential or without merit; absurdity; trifle.

bêtise

/ bɛˈtiːz /

noun

1. rare.
   folly or lack of perception

Word History and Origins

Origin of bêtise¹

1820–30; < French: literally, foolishness, equivalent to bête foolish ( beast ) + -ise -ice

Word History and Origins

Origin of bêtise¹

French, from bête foolish, from bête (n) stupid person, beast

Example Sentences

Frankly—I would put it at such moments—he becomes at last an optical bore or betise.

From Project Gutenberg

We should get no clothes fit to wear next week if we committed such a betise.

From Project Gutenberg

He immediately stopped his pursuit, exclaiming with a shrug: "Ah quelle betise!"

From Project Gutenberg