What does goof mean?
Goof is an informal word with several closely related uses. As a noun, it can refer to a foolish or pointless mistake, as in “make a goof,” or to a foolish person. As a verb, it can mean to make a mistake or to behave in a silly, playful, or idle manner, especially in the expression “goof around.” Its tone is generally conversational and sometimes teasing: describing an error as a goof softens the criticism, while calling a person a goof can be affectionate or insulting depending on context. The word is particularly common in everyday American English but is also understood in British English. Related forms include the adjective goofy and the adverb goofily. Although goof may sound childish or exaggerated, it is useful because it conveys both the idea of foolishness and the notion that something is pointless or unintentionally inept.
A foolish or pointless mistake; occasionally, a foolish or silly person.
"The film was enjoyable despite a few obvious goofs."
Informal; the sense meaning “a foolish person” can be teasing or insulting depending on context.
To make a mistake, act foolishly, or behave in a silly and playful manner.
"I goofed by sending the message to the wrong person."
Informal and intransitive in the sense “to make a mistake”; “goof around” is especially common in casual speech.
The standard plural of the noun is goofs, used for mistakes or foolish people.
"The comedy special was full of deliberate goofs and visual jokes."
Goof can name both the foolish person and the foolish mistake, capturing the idea that nonsense and silliness often come together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does goof come from?
The word appears in early 20th-century English, but its deeper origin is uncertain. It developed related forms such as goofy, while no secure cognate or earlier source can be identified with confidence.
Related word forms
How goof is actually used
The word is informal throughout. Calling someone a goof can sound teasing but may also be insulting, depending on the relationship and tone; the noun for a mistake is often more neutral.
Easily confused with goof
A goof is a mistake or a foolish person, whereas goofy describes someone or something as silly, childish, or absurd.