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.
The boy, as are children in many Meatyard images, is the innocent witness to elusive goings-on.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 21, 2026
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
Early in our courtship, Yassir spoke romantically of New York’s late-night diners and constant goings-on.
From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2025
“Uncle Louver says there’s critters of all shapes and sizes out here. He tells quite the tale about goings-on in the woods.”
From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
