Synonyms

goings-on

American

[goh-ingz-on, awn] / ˈgoʊ ɪŋzˈɒn, ˈɔn /

noun

Informal.

conduct or behavior, especially when open to criticism.

We had never seen such goings-on as at the last dance.
happenings; events.

The American newspaper kept her in touch with the goings-on back home.

goings-on British

plural noun

actions or conduct, esp when regarded with disapproval
happenings or events, esp when mysterious or suspicious

there were strange goings-on up at the Hall

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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.

Being adored without trying, being involved in goings-on without speaking or taking responsibility?

From Salon • Feb. 18, 2026

For fellow Brussels local Michel Elias, however, the artwork allowed him to reflect on contemporary goings-on in the Holy Land.

From Barron's • Dec. 2, 2025

For many Parsis, it has offered a window into the goings-on in the community, helping members across the world feel connected and seen as their numbers dwindled and dispersed.

From BBC • Sep. 6, 2025

Not everyone felt quite as enthusiastic about goings-on inside the Club World Cup stadiums.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 11, 2025

The sheriff turns to Jackson, who’s sat up enough to watch the goings-on in the office.

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023