Definition

The act of daydreaming or indulging in fanciful thoughts that are not based in reality.

Example

During the lecture, she found herself woolgathering instead of paying attention to the teacher.

Conversation

I caught myself woolgathering during the meeting today.

Really? What were you daydreaming about?

I was thinking about our trip to the mountains next month.

That sounds amazing! I can't wait to go.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Woolgathering → The word is formed from "wool" (from Old English *wull*, meaning the soft, curly hair of sheep) and "gathering" (from Old English *gaderian*, meaning to collect). The term originally referred to the act of gathering wool, but it has come to mean daydreaming or indulging in fanciful thoughts, as if one is collecting thoughts like wool.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gathering' soft 'wool' — this helps you remember that 'woolgathering' refers to collecting thoughts or daydreaming.

Visually Confused Words