dumb betty

noun

dumb bet·​ty
-ˈbet|ē,
-et|,
|i
: a primitive mechanical household contrivance (as a washing machine or dumbwaiter) used to lighten the work of early American housewives

Word History

Etymology

from the name Betty

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near dumb betty

Cite this Entry

“Dumb betty.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dumb%20betty. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!