Langimage
English

foolproof

|fool/proof|

B2

/ˈfuːlˌpruːf/

resistant to error

Etymology
Etymology Information

'foolproof' originates from English, combining 'fool' meaning 'a person who acts unwisely' and 'proof' meaning 'resistant to'.

Historical Evolution

'foolproof' was coined in the early 20th century to describe mechanisms or systems that could not be misused by a fool.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'resistant to foolish actions', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

incapable of going wrong or being misused.

The new software is designed to be foolproof.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45