Meaning & Definition of word "Foolishness"

Foolishness

/ˈfuːlɪʃnəs/

noun:

  • 1. Lack of good sense or judgment; the quality of being foolish.
    • Example: His foolishness led him to invest all his savings in a dubious scheme.
  • 2. An act or instance of being foolish.
    • Example: Jumping off the roof was a moment of pure foolishness.
  • 3. A lack of wisdom or prudence.
    • Example: She regretted her foolishness in trusting someone she barely knew.

Etymology

Middle English, from the word 'fool' + '-ish' + '-ness'

Common Phrases and Expressions

foolish behavior:

Actions that lack wisdom or sound judgment.

foolish decisions:

Choices made without considering the consequences.

foolish pride:

An unreasonable sense of pride that may lead to downfall.

Related Words

fool:

A person lacking in judgment or sense.

foolhardy:

Recklessly bold or rash in behavior.

Slang Meanings of foolishness

Meaning: Tomfoolery

Example Sentence: They were just engaging in some good old tomfoolery at the reunion.

Meaning: Goofiness

Example Sentence: His goofiness during class made it hard for anyone to take him seriously.

Meaning: Nonsense

Example Sentence: What a load of nonsense to think that would actually work!