What does technophobe mean?
A technophobe is someone who strongly dislikes, distrusts, or opposes technology. The word can describe a person who avoids computers and other modern devices, fears losing control to complicated systems, or rejects the idea that technological development is inherently beneficial. It is commonly used in general English in both British and American contexts, although it can sound informal or mildly judgmental when applied to someone whose difficulty is only practical or temporary. The related adjective technophobiac describes a technophobe or a technophobic attitude, while technophobia names the broader fear or hostility. A technophile is the usual opposite, someone who eagerly embraces technology. The word is useful when discussing attitudes toward digital tools, innovation, automation, and changing ways of communication, because it distinguishes simple unfamiliarity or inconvenience from a more fundamental opposition to technology itself.
nounA technophobe is a person who strongly dislikes, distrusts, or opposes the use of technology. The term may also refer to someone who feels uncomfortable or apprehensive about operating modern devices.
- A person who dislikes, distrusts, or opposes technology.
"Despite her expertise in the subject, she remained a technophobe who avoided computers whenever possible."
"As a lifelong technophobe, he still preferred paper maps and handwritten notes."
"Calling her a technophobe was unfair; she simply needed more time to learn the new system."
The plural refers to multiple people who dislike or oppose technology.
"The workshop was designed for technophobes who wanted to learn without being pressured."
Technophobe turns a simple dislike of gadgets into a memorable identity: the person who sees technology as a threat before the first error message appears.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of technophobe
The word combines the English combining form techno-, ultimately based on Greek tekhnē, meaning art or craft, with elements connected to Greek phobos, meaning fear. It developed in English as part of a wider vocabulary formed during the expansion of modern technology, alongside terms such as technophile and technocrat. Its family also includes the noun technophobia and the adjective technophobiac, all expressing attitudes toward technology rather than merely naming a particular device or system.
Related word forms
How technophobe is actually used
The word is most often used for people and may sound mildly dismissive or teasing when applied to someone who is merely inexperienced. It is less appropriate for ordinary inconvenience with a particular device and generally implies a broader aversion to technology.
Easily confused with technophobe
A technophobe is opposed to or uncomfortable with technology, whereas a technophile is enthusiastic about it and enjoys using it.