How Do You Spell TOMFOOL?

Pronunciation: [tˈɒmfuːl] (IPA)

The word "tomfool" is a term used to describe a person who behaves foolishly or recklessly. It is spelled using four phonemes: /t/, /ɒ/, /m/, and /fuːl/. The first phoneme, /t/, represents the unvoiced alveolar plosive sound. The second, /ɒ/, is the open back rounded vowel. The third and fourth phonemes, /m/ and /fuːl/, represent the bilabial nasal consonant and the long vowel sound /uːl/, respectively. When pronounced accurately, the word can be heard as "TOM-fool".

TOMFOOL Meaning and Definition

1. Tomfool is a noun that refers to a person who engages in foolish or silly behavior. The term is often used to describe someone who acts in a playful or foolish manner without the intention of causing harm.

   The word "tomfool" originates from the combination of two words: "tom" and "fool." "Tom" is a common and informal term used to refer to a man, while "fool" denotes a person who lacks good sense or judgment. When combined, "tomfool" creates a word that specifically characterizes a man who exhibits foolish behavior.

   A tomfool is someone who tends to be lighthearted and enjoys playful antics or practical jokes. They may engage in silly or nonsensical activities purely for amusement or to entertain others. It is important to note that a tomfool is not intentionally malicious or harmful; their actions are typically harmless and intended to bring joy or laughter.

   The term "tomfool" is often used colloquially to affectionately tease or mock someone in a light-hearted manner. It can also be employed to describe someone who consistently behaves in an immature or nonsensical manner. In literature or storytelling, a tomfool might be depicted as a humorous character or a jester, adding levity or comic relief to a situation.

2. A silly trifler.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for TOMFOOL

• romfool
• fomfool
• gomfool
• yomfool
• 6omfool
• 5omfool
• timfool
• tkmfool
• tlmfool
• tpmfool
• t0mfool
• t9mfool
• tonfool
• tokfool
• tojfool
• tomdool
• tomcool
• tomvool
• tomgool

Etymology of TOMFOOL

The word "tomfool" is believed to have originated from the combination of two different terms. "Tom" is a diminutive form of the given name "Thomas", often used to represent an ordinary or generic individual. "Fool" refers to a person lacking in common sense or one who acts in a silly or senseless manner. The term "tomfool" appeared in the English language in the late 17th century and was commonly used to describe a jester or clown. Over time, it evolved to refer to anyone engaging in foolish behavior or playing the role of a fool.

Similar spelling words for TOMFOOL

• tomfoolery,
• tombola.

Plural form of TOMFOOL is TOMFOOLS