I clearly recall that Samwise (who we learned means "half-wise" or maybe half-witted) Gamgee was speaking to himself, saying "You're nowt but a ninnyhammer, Sam Gamgee." I never had any doubt that the term meant "fool". I suspect there is a deeper derivation to it than Anu mentions. If the "ham" means "town" like I suspect, it probably is a derogatory derived from a placename.

Cheers,
Bryan

You are only wretched and unworthy if you choose to be.

Cheers,
Bryan

You are only wretched and unworthy if you choose to be.