goings-on
Americannoun
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conduct or behavior, especially when open to criticism.
We had never seen such goings-on as at the last dance.
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happenings; events.
The American newspaper kept her in touch with the goings-on back home.
plural noun
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actions or conduct, esp when regarded with disapproval
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happenings or events, esp when mysterious or suspicious
there were strange goings-on up at the Hall
Etymology
Origin of goings-on
First recorded in 1765–75; noun use of present participle phrase going on
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
For Powell, herself a participant in New York’s artistic circles, “The Golden Spur” was an opportunity to compare the goings-on of her 1920s youth with the postwar situation.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 31, 2026
The mansion’s goings-on were evidence that Hefner had amassed enough money and prestige to get his way, even when his way defied social norms, public-health best practices, and the law.
From Slate ● Jun. 11, 2026
The truth of Eckert's involvement - or whether he even know about the goings-on - should soon become known.
From BBC ● May 21, 2026
In early fall, Ben Carter checked a camera positioned to capture the goings-on in a corrugated metal tunnel installed beneath a breathtaking stretch of the 395 north of the town of Bridgeport.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 10, 2025
At first Mary had not been sure whom to believe about the goings-on in the Moss household.
From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter
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