Search
Select the dictionary language
a silly, eccentric, or foolish person
American
What is the origin of the term "goofball" and how is it used?
"goofball" is an American slang term that appeared in the early 20th century, originally referring to someone clumsy, foolish, or eccentric. The word likely comes from "goof," meaning a fool or mistake, with "ball" added for emphasis or playfulness. It has been used in informal speech, comedy, and pop culture to describe someone acting silly, eccentric, or naive. The term is mildly derogatory but generally playful rather than harsh, often used teasingly rather than to deeply insult, and is not neutral in tone.
a person who amuses others by ridiculous behavior
a mixture of methamphetamine and heroin taken together for combined stimulant and depressant effects
What does "goofball" mean in drug slang?
The term "goofball" refers to a mixture of a stimulant (typically methamphetamine) and a depressant (typically heroin) taken together. The structure is informal slang, likely referencing the disorienting and contradictory effects of combining a "speed" drug with an opioid. It is used in drug-related contexts to describe this high-risk combination, which places strong opposing effects on the central nervous system.
Lexical Tree
goof
ball
