Definition of obtuse

The word "obtuse" has a fascinating origin. In the 15th century, it was borrowed from Latin, where "obtusus" meant "blunt, dull" or "stubby". This Latin term was derived from "obtundere", which meant "to blunt or dull". In English, "obtuse" initially referred to something physically blunt or dull, such as a blunt instrument or a dull edge. Over time, the meaning of "obtuse" expanded to include conceptual applications. In geometry, an obtuse angle refers to an angle greater than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees, which is often described as "dull" or "blunt" compared to acute or right angles. In figurative language, "obtuse" can describe someone or something as dull-witted, stubborn, or difficult to understand. Despite its evolution, the word "obtuse" retains its original connection to the idea of blunting or dulling edges, both physical and metaphorical.