noun
Uncommon
foolishness
FOO-lihsh-nuhs
Foolishness (noun) means the state or quality of being unwise or silly. Example: “His foolishness cost him the whole deal.”
noun
1
The state or quality of being unwise or silly.
"His foolishness cost him the whole deal."
2
A silly or absurd act or idea.
"The whole plan was foolishness from start to finish."
How to use foolishness
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSilly, unwise behavior or an unwise idea.
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Word forms
- Plural
- foolishnesses
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His _____ cost him the whole deal.
Etymology
Descended from Middle English folishnesse, follissnesse, equivalent to foolish plus -ness.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for foolishness
See all rhymes for foolishness →Frequently asked questions
What does “foolishness” mean?
The word “foolishness” means the state or quality of being unwise or silly. In plain terms, silly, unwise behavior or an unwise idea.
How do you pronounce “foolishness”?
“Foolishness” is pronounced FOO-lihsh-nuhs (/ˈfuːlɪʃnəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “foolishness” in a sentence?
Here is “foolishness” used in a sentence: “His foolishness cost him the whole deal.”
What is another word for “foolishness”?
Words with a similar meaning to “foolishness” include imprudence, folly, extravagance, irresponsibility, indiscretion and absurdity.
What is the opposite of “foolishness”?
The opposite of “foolishness” — its antonyms — is wisdom.
What part of speech is “foolishness”?
“Foolishness” is a noun.
Is “foolishness” a common word?
“Foolishness” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “foolishness” have?
“Foolishness” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the state or quality of being unwise or silly.
