Langimage
English

silliness

|sil/li/ness|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈsɪliːnəs/

🇬🇧

/ˈsɪlɪnəs/

(silly)

foolish or playful

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeNoun
sillysilliersilliestsilliness
Etymology
Etymology Information

'silly' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'sælig,' where 'sælig' meant 'happy' or 'blessed.'

Historical Evolution

'sælig' transformed into the Middle English word 'sely,' and eventually became the modern English word 'silly.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'happy or blessed,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'foolish or lacking in good sense.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality or state of being silly or foolish.

Her silliness made everyone laugh.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41