Yokel

usgb/ˈjəʊkl/
noun

A person from the countryside who is considered to be not smart or sophisticated.

In the city, he felt like a yokel, completely out of place among the fashionable, fast-paced urbanites.
Visual representation of "yokel" - A person from the countryside who is considered to be not smart or sophisticated

Often appears as...

  • local yokel
  • feel like a yokel

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "yokel"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Potentially Offensive

Be careful when using 'yokel' because it can insult someone by implying they're uneducated or unsophisticated.

Illustration for Potentially Offensive
Calling him a yokel hurt his feelings because he was proud of his rural roots.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Stereotype Alert

'Yokel' reinforces stereotypes, so understand it may not reflect truth about individuals from rural areas.

Illustration for Stereotype Alert
He disproved the yokel stereotype with his quick wit and sophisticated taste.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Urban Contrast

Use 'yokel' to highlight a contrast between rural simplicity and urban complexity or fashion.

Illustration for Urban Contrast
At the tech conference, the self-identified yokel amazed everyone with his innovative ideas.
Visual representation of the word "Yokel"

Never forget "Yokel"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top