goofus: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Slang, sometimes playful or mildly insulting.
Quick answer
What does “goofus” mean?
A foolish, silly, or incompetent person.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A foolish, silly, or incompetent person.
A person characterized by ineptitude, clumsiness, or a lack of common sense; can also refer to a specific type of foolishness, often in a playful or affectionately critical manner.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is primarily American in origin and common use. In British English, it is understood but less frequently used.
Connotations
In AmE, it carries a distinctly mid-century, possibly dated, informal tone. In BrE, if used, it is often recognized as an Americanism.
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English. British speakers would more likely use terms like 'twit', 'prat', 'plonker', or 'numpty' in similar informal contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “goofus” in a Sentence
[Subject] + be + (a/an) + goofusDon't be such a + goofusWhat a + goofus!Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “goofus” in a Sentence
adjective
American English
- That was a real goofus move.
- He has a goofus grin on his face.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Highly inappropriate; would be considered unprofessional and potentially insulting.
Academic
Not used; inappropriate for formal writing or discourse.
Everyday
Used in casual conversation among friends or family, often humorously or teasingly.
Technical
Not used in any technical field.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “goofus”
- Using it in formal contexts.
- Spelling it as 'goofis' or 'goofuss'.
- Overusing as a direct synonym for 'idiot'; it is milder and more specific.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is informal and mildly insulting, but generally less harsh than 'idiot'. It can be used affectionately among friends or family.
It originated as American slang, derived from 'goof' (fool) + the suffix '-us'. It was widely popularized by the 'Goofus and Gallant' feature in 'Highlights for Children' magazine from 1948 onwards.
No, 'goofus' is a noun (and sometimes an adjective). The related verb is 'goof' (to make a mistake or mess around).
They are very close synonyms. 'Doofus' might be slightly more common in modern American slang, but both imply a foolish, clumsy person. 'Goofus' has a stronger historical connection to the specific cartoon character.
A foolish, silly, or incompetent person.
Goofus is usually informal, slang, sometimes playful or mildly insulting. in register.
Goofus: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡuːfəs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡuːfəs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Goofus and Gallant (referring to the cartoon characters)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'GOOF' (to make a mistake) + 'US' (a person). A 'goofus' is a person who makes goofs.
Conceptual Metaphor
FOOLISHNESS IS A PERSON (Personification of the trait).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would calling someone a 'goofus' be LEAST appropriate?