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schlub

American  
[shluhb] / ʃlʌb /
Also zhlub, or shlub

noun

Slang.
  1. a clumsy, stupid person.


schlub British  
/ ʃlʌb /

noun

  1. slang a coarse or contemptible person

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of schlub

First recorded in 1950–55; from Yiddish zhlob, zhlub “yokel, boor,” from Polish żłób “blockhead” literally, “trough, manger”

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sure, he was recognized by another schlub who used to live in Albuquerque.

From Salon • Aug. 16, 2022

In “The Sbarro Incident,” he goes from being the star of a popular book event to a friendless schlub sitting alone at a pizzeria, as attendees gawk through the window at him.

From New York Times • Jul. 17, 2020

Kravitz does the neat trick of seeming appealing even while, despite being the genetically advantaged daughter of Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet, she gives a surprisingly good impression of a depressed schlub.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2020

Ishtar is genuinely funny, from its intentionally awful songs to its stunt casting: It is Dustin Hoffman who’s cast as the ladies man, and Warren Beatty as the schlub with no game.

From Slate • Jun. 7, 2019

“Grinding” is a verb used ostensibly as a compliment, meaning “at least the big schlub is trying,” despite repeatedly scuffling more than a little bit.

From Washington Post • Jun. 3, 2019

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