Tomfoolery

usgb/tɑːmˈfuːləri/
noun

Silly or pointless activity.

Sarah was tired of the boys' tomfoolery at the dinner table.
Visual representation of "tomfoolery" - Silly or pointless activity

Often appears as...

  • engage in tomfoolery
  • stop the tomfoolery

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "tomfoolery"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Informal Context

Use 'tomfoolery' in casual or informal settings, not in serious or formal situations.

Illustration for Informal Context
The office party was full of tomfoolery and laughter.
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Negative Connotation

'Tomfoolery' often implies disapproval of the activities being described.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Her parents had no patience for tomfoolery during family gatherings.
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Mild Disruption

Activities described as 'tomfoolery' are usually mildly disruptive or distracting.

Illustration for Mild Disruption
The teacher asked the students to settle down and stop their tomfoolery.
Visual representation of the word "Tomfoolery"

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