goof
verb (used without object)
to blunder; make an error, misjudgment, etc.
goofing
-
present participleof goof.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
That problem-solving begins long before Saturdays, when Smith hones his particular set of skills in sessions that might otherwise look like goofing off.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 11, 2026
Geisel lasted less than a year in Oxford, but Jones says "once he's hooked up with Helen" he spent his time "travelling, goofing off and kind of really doing anything but his studies".
From BBC ● Mar. 2, 2026
Eileen Shiffrin, Mikaela’s mother and original skiing Obi-Wan, says she knows it’s going to be a good day when her daughter is goofing off and chatty.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 3, 2026
Older kids and adults — even those who aren't furries — also love some animal-themed goofing off: Consider the mascots associated wity many college sports teams.
From Salon ● May 12, 2025
Since it rained for the rest of the day, we spent most of the afternoon goofing off in the rec room.
From "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio
