different between foolish vs goofball

English

Etymology

From Middle English folisch; equivalent to fool +? -ish.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /?fu?.l??/

Adjective

foolish (comparative foolisher or more foolish, superlative foolishest or most foolish)

1. (of a person, an action, etc.) Lacking good sense or judgement; unwise.
2. Resembling or characteristic of a fool.

Synonyms

• absurd
• idiotic
• ridiculous
• silly
• unwise

Antonyms

• wise

Derived terms

• a foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds
• foolishly
• foolishness

Translations

English

Etymology

goof +? ball

Pronunciation

• (US) IPA^(key): /??uf?b?l/

Noun

goofball (plural goofballs)

1. (informal, often derogatory, sometimes endearing) A foolish or silly person or animal.

   If that goofball would put half the effort into her studies as she does into her juggling, she might do very well.

2. (informal, pharmacology) A pill or tablet containing a pharmaceutical which has hypnotic or intoxicating effects, especially a barbiturate.
   • 1953 April 27, "Capsules," Time:

     Strong Cobb & Co. of Cleveland announced a new barbiturate which in overlarge doses will turn the stomachs of "goofball" addicts and would-be suicides.

Translations

Adjective

goofball (not comparable)

1. (informal) Silly.

   He announced, with his usual goofball humor, that he'd like to marry me!

See also

• oddball
• screwball