Tomfoolery: meaning, definitions and examples
๐คช
tomfoolery
[tษmหfuหlษri ]
Definitions
silly behavior
Foolish or silly behavior, often characterized by pranks, tricks, or mischief.
Synonyms
foolery, mischief, shenanigans.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tomfoolery |
This word is used when you want to describe silly or foolish behavior in a somewhat humorous way. It carries a light-hearted tone.
|
| foolery |
Use this term to describe silly or foolish actions, often used in a slightly disdainful manner to indicate unnecessary or annoying behavior.
|
| shenanigans |
Use 'shenanigans' to describe high-spirited or mischievous activities that are usually harmless but can be seen as annoying or troublesome.
|
| mischief |
This word describes behavior that causes minor trouble or disruption, often playful or teasing in nature. Mischief can sometimes imply a bit more negative or problematic behavior than tomfoolery.
|
Examples of usage
- He was up to his usual tomfoolery, hiding my keys again.
- Stop with the tomfoolery and focus on your work.
nonsense
Nonsensical or foolish talk or ideas; absurdity.
Synonyms
balderdash, nonsense, rubbish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tomfoolery |
Used when referring to silly or playful behavior; often implies light-hearted mischief.
|
| nonsense |
Commonly used to describe statements or ideas that lack meaning or are illogical; can be neutral or slightly negative.
|
| balderdash |
Suitable for describing something you believe to be nonsense or absurd; often used in a dismissive or contemptuous manner.
|
| rubbish |
Typically used to describe things that are considered worthless or of low quality; has a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- I can't believe she fell for that tomfoolery about the flying pigs.
- Don't listen to his tomfoolery, he's just trying to confuse you.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word originates from the name 'Tom Fool,' a character from medieval English theatre known for his silly antics.
- It appeared in writings from as early as the 16th century, reflecting a long history of playful foolishness in language.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters often engaged in tomfoolery, adding humor to the serious plots.
- Tomfoolery is frequently noted in children's literature, showcasing characters who embody mischief and lightheartedness.
Pop Culture
- The term is often used in comedic films and TV shows, where characters act absurdly to entertain audiences.
- Popular comedians have cultivated an image of tomfoolery, capitalizing on exaggerated expressions and clumsy behavior.
Psychology
- Engaging in playful silliness can relieve stress and foster social connections among friends.
- Psychological studies show that humor, including tomfoolery, enhances creativity and problem-solving capabilities.
Social Perspectives
- Tomfoolery is often viewed as a necessary break from seriousness, allowing people to connect and relax.
- Different cultures have various forms of tomfoolery, from visual gags to verbal humor, all emphasizing the joy of laughter.
Translations
Translations of the word "tomfoolery" in other languages:
๐ต๐น brincadeira
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฎเฅเคฐเฅเคเคคเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Albernheit
๐ฎ๐ฉ kekonyolan
๐บ๐ฆ ะดัััััั
๐ต๐ฑ gลupota
๐ฏ๐ต ๆใใ (ใใใใ)
๐ซ๐ท sottise
๐ช๐ธ tonterรญa
๐น๐ท aptallฤฑk
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ฐ๋ณด ๊ฐ์ ์ง (babo gateun jit)
๐ธ๐ฆ ุญู ุงูุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ hloupost
๐ธ๐ฐ hlรบposลฅ
๐จ๐ณ ๆ่ ข (yรบ chวn)
๐ธ๐ฎ neumnost
๐ฎ๐ธ heimskulegheit
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐาัะผะฐาััา
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแแ แแงแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ axmaqlฤฑq
๐ฒ๐ฝ tonterรญa