Definition

The quality of behaving in a silly or foolish way, often imitating someone else.

Example

His apishness during the meeting made everyone laugh, but it also annoyed some of his colleagues.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some people exhibit such apishness in their behavior?

Yeah, it's pretty obvious sometimes, especially during stressful situations.

Right? I think it just makes them look less mature.

Exactly, it's better to handle things calmly instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Apishness is formed from "apish" (from Middle English "apeish", meaning resembling an ape) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "apishness" refers to the quality of being like an ape, often implying foolishness or mimicry.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'ape' in 'apish' to remember that 'apishness' means the quality of being like an ape, often in a silly or foolish way.

Visually Confused Words