# goldilocks

/ˈɡoʊɫdiˌɫɔks/ (US) · /ɡˈəʊldɪlˌɒks/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/goldilocks
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

describing something that is just right — not too much and not too little. You use it when temperature, size, or amount feels perfect for what you need.

For teachers: denoting an amount, condition, or temperature that avoids extremes and is exactly suitable for its purpose. Often placed before nouns for zones, planets, or economies where balance matters.

## Examples

- This soup is goldilocks — not too hot and not too cold.
- Astronomers look for goldilocks planets where temperatures allow liquid water and life might exist.
- After years of boom and bust, the economy entered a goldilocks period with steady growth, low inflation, and rising employment across most sectors.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies, as in 'goldilocks zone' or 'goldilocks economy'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.