Fool

Definition

Fool primarily refers to a person who lacks good judgment or sense.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fuːl/
• Respelling: FOOL (with "FOOL" as in "school")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fuːl/
• Respelling: FOOL (with "FOOL" as in "school")

In both dialects, "fool" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FOOL."

Etymology

The word "fool" comes from the Old French "fol," meaning "madman" or "jester," and from the Latin "follis," meaning "bellows" or "bag," which was used metaphorically to describe a person filled with air or lacking sense. The term has been used in English since the 13th century to describe someone who acts without reason or engages in foolish behavior.

Derivatives

• Foolish (adjective)
• Foolery (noun)
• Foolhardy (adjective)
• Foolproof (adjective)
• Foolishness (noun)

Synonyms

• Idiot
• Dunce
• Simpleton

Antonyms

• Genius
• Sage
• Expert

Usage

"Fool" is commonly used to describe someone who acts unwisely or lacks judgment. It can be used in a light-hearted or humorous way to refer to someone behaving playfully, or more seriously to criticize someone for poor decisions. The term has historical significance as well, particularly in its association with jesters, who were employed to entertain and amuse in royal courts.

Related Terms

• Gullible: Easily deceived or tricked.
• Naive: Lacking experience or judgment.
• Buffoon: A person who behaves comically or plays the clown.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Person Who Acts Without Wisdom: Refers to someone who behaves in a way that is considered silly, lacking in intelligence, or unwise.
  
  • Example: He made a fool of himself by tripping on stage during the presentation.
  ‍
• A Court Jester: Historically, a fool was a professional entertainer in medieval courts, often wearing distinctive clothing and acting out humorous performances.
  • Example: The king’s fool was known for his sharp wit and clever wordplay.

• Someone Who Has Been Tricked or Deceived: Refers to a person who has been easily misled or taken advantage of.
  • Example: She felt like a fool for believing his lies.

Verb

• To Mislead or Play a Trick On: Refers to the act of deceiving someone or making them believe something that is not true.
  
  • Example: He fooled his friends into thinking it was his birthday when it wasn’t.