noun
goff
Goff (noun) means a foolish or clumsy person; a clown or simpleton (dialectal/archaic). Example: “The old text calls the jester a common goff, fit only for laughs.”
noun
1
A foolish or clumsy person; a clown or simpleton (dialectal/archaic).
"The old text calls the jester a common goff, fit only for laughs."
How to use goff
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old-fashioned or dialect word for a foolish, clumsy person.
When to use it
Archaic/dialectal — you will mostly meet this in older texts, not everyday speech.
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Word forms
- Plural
- goffs
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old text calls the jester a common _____, fit only for laughs.
Etymology
Related to the old French word goffe, meaning "clumsy" or "ill-made," and similar dialect words in Italian, Spanish, and German for a blockhead or fool.
Rhymes for goff
See all rhymes for goff →Frequently asked questions
What does “goff” mean?
The word “goff” means a foolish or clumsy person; a clown or simpleton (dialectal/archaic). In plain terms, an old-fashioned or dialect word for a foolish, clumsy person.
How do you use “goff” in a sentence?
Here is “goff” used in a sentence: “The old text calls the jester a common goff, fit only for laughs.”
What part of speech is “goff”?
“Goff” is a noun.
Where does the word “goff” come from?
The word “goff” comes from Old French. Related to the old French word goffe, meaning "clumsy" or "ill-made," and similar dialect words in Italian, Spanish, and German for a blockhead or fool.
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