# goofy

/ˈɡufi/ (US) · /ɡˈuːfi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/goofy
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. silly or funny

adjective · CEFR B1 · Informal

silly, funny, or a bit strange in a way that makes people smile.

For teachers: characterised by harmless silliness, eccentricity, or a lack of seriousness.

- He wore a goofy hat with ears to the party to make the kids laugh.
- The comedian's goofy persona masked a sharp wit, allowing him to deliver biting social commentary under the guise of harmless slapstick.

Usage: Often used to describe facial expressions, clothing, or lighthearted behaviour.

### 2. board sports stance

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

riding a skateboard, surfboard, or snowboard with your right foot at the front.

For teachers: referring to a stance in board sports where the rider leads with the right foot rather than the more common left foot.

- I realized I was a goofy rider the first time I tried to stand on a skateboard.
- While most professionals ride regular, several iconic skaters are famous for their goofy stance, which can influence how they approach certain park features.

Usage: Almost exclusively used in the context of skateboarding, snowboarding, or surfing.

### 3. a silly person

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal · American English

a person who acts in a silly or clumsy way.

For teachers: an individual who behaves in a silly, awkward, or eccentric manner.

- Stop being such a goofy and help me carry these boxes.
- Though he was a brilliant engineer, his colleagues affectionately regarded him as a bit of a goofy due to his constant practical jokes.

Teaching tip: In modern English, 'goofball' or 'goof' is more common as a noun than 'goofy'.

## Examples

- He wore a goofy hat to the party to make the kids laugh.
- The dog had a goofy expression on its face as it tried to catch the bubbles.
- While the film deals with some heavy themes, it maintains a goofy charm through its lead character's constant bumbling and physical comedy.

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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.