Fruitcake

/ˈfruːt.keɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A cake made with candied or dried fruits, nuts, and spices, typically baked in a round or loaf shape and often associated with holiday celebrations.
She brought a traditional fruitcake to the Christmas party.
A term used informally to refer to someone who is eccentric or crazy.
My uncle is a bit of a fruitcake; he believes he can communicate with animals.

Etymology

The word 'fruitcake' combines 'fruit' (from Old French 'fruit') and 'cake' (from Old Norse 'kaka'). The term dates back to the 16th century.

Common Phrases and Expressions

fruitcake
Refers to an eccentric or crazy person.

Related Words

cake
A sweet baked food made from flour, sugar, and other ingredients.
dessert
A sweet course typically eaten at the end of a meal.
eccentric
Unconventional and slightly strange.

Slang Meanings

An eccentric or crazy person.
That guy is a real fruitcake; he always has the weirdest ideas.
Something nonsensical or frivolous.
Don't take that fruitcake advice seriously.