Definition

A foolish act or idea that often leads to negative consequences; a lack of good judgment or sense.

Example

Investing all his savings in that scheme was a real folly.

Conversation

I can't believe I spent all my savings on that car.

That was definitely a bit of a folly, wasn't it?

Yeah, I thought it would be a good investment at the time.

Sometimes we just have to learn from our folly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Folly originates from Old French *folie*, meaning foolishness or madness, which is derived from the Latin *follis* (meaning bellows or a bag, often used metaphorically for emptiness). The word 'folly' refers to a lack of good sense or foolishness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'foolishness' as a way to remember that 'folly' means a lack of good sense or wisdom.

Visually Confused Words