Langimage
English

oaf

|oaf|

B2

🇺🇸

/oʊf/

🇬🇧

/əʊf/

clumsy person

Etymology
Etymology Information

'oaf' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'álfr,' where 'álfr' meant 'elf.'

Historical Evolution

'álfr' changed from the Old Norse word 'álfr' and eventually became the modern English word 'oaf.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'elf,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a clumsy or unintelligent person.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a clumsy or unintelligent person.

He tripped over his own feet like an oaf.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/05 23:23