duffer

American  

[duhf-er] / ˈdʌf ər /

noun

1. Informal.

   1. a plodding, clumsy, incompetent person.

   2. a person inept or inexperienced at a specific sport, as golf.

2. Northern and North Midland U.S. an old man, especially a dull or indecisive one.

3. Slang.

   1. anything inferior, counterfeit, or useless.

   2. a peddler, especially one who sells cheap, flashy goods.

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duffer British  

/ ˈdʌfə /

noun

1. informal a dull or incompetent person

2. slang something worthless

3. dialect a peddler or hawker

4. slang

   1. a mine that proves unproductive

   2. a person who steals cattle

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Etymology

Origin of duffer

1835–45; perhaps Scots dialect duffar, dowfart “dull, stupid person,” derivative of dowf; duffer def. 3 perhaps re-formation with duff ³ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

“He wasn’t just playing three characters, but three different layers of the same character, each with unique looks, vocal ranges, physicalities and emotions,” says Matt Duffer, one of the show’s creators.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

Holland was also instrumental in wooing “Stranger Things” creators Matt and Ross Duffer to Paramount from their longtime home at Netflix.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Executive produced by the Duffer Brothers of ‘Stranger Things,’ this series follows an engaged couple on an overlong and aimless journey filled with creepiness and dread.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

The Duffer Brothers, Matt and Ross, and Hilary Leavitt from Upside Down Pictures are executive producing along with Haley Z. Boston, who will serve as showrunner.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 2, 2026

"It's my belief he's quarrelled with her," said Mrs. Duffer.

From Marion Fay by Trollope, Anthony