Synonyms for

Fool

Noun / fu:l / Another word for fool — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person who lacks good sense or judgement; a silly or stupid person.

Synonyms & similar words

shoot tomfool patsy jester mug muggins slang dissipate sap sucker fritter chump cod gull saphead befool dupe mark idiot simpleton moron nitwit imbecile dunce clown jester buffoon witless stupid dullard blockhead numskull dolt halfwit nincompoop dimwit lunatic silly

Synonyms by register

Formal

dupe charlatan imposter buffoon

Informal

idiot moron nincompoop doofus numpty

Literary

jester witling simpleton

Antonyms

wise smart intelligent sage prudent clever astute

Common collocations

  • play the fool
  • fool around
  • fool's errand
  • make a fool of
  • fool's gold
  • wise fool
  • fool's paradise

Word family

noun fool
verb fool
adjective foolish

Usage note

The word 'fool' can be used as a noun to refer to a person, or as a verb meaning to trick or deceive someone. Be mindful of its often harsh and dismissive connotation.

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Example sentences

  1. The jester was the king's fool and entertained everyone with his silly acts.
  2. Don't be a fool and jump off the roof.
  3. She felt like a fool after realizing she had left her wallet at home.
  4. The boy was acting like a fool and broke his mother's vase.
  5. He played the role of a fool in the school play.

Quotes

  • Fools rush in where angels fear to tread. - Alexander Pope
  • The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool. - William Shakespeare
  • Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt. - Abraham Lincoln

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