foolproof

adjective

fool·​proof ˈfül-ˌprüf How to pronounce foolproof (audio)
Synonyms of foolproofnext
: so simple, plain, or reliable as to leave no opportunity for error, misuse, or failure
a foolproof plan

Examples of foolproof in a Sentence

DNA fingerprinting gives police a virtually foolproof way to link a suspect to a crime scene.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To round out the dish, add rotisserie chicken, peas, and herbs for a foolproof one-pot meal that tastes like you’re dining in a restaurant. Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 21 Feb. 2026 Protective barriers like rug pads can help with distributing the weight from a heavy piece of furniture, but these aren't foolproof, Cox says. Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 19 Feb. 2026 Of course, the tests are not foolproof. Tanya Lewis, Scientific American, 19 Feb. 2026 The system isn’t exactly foolproof. Eliza Shapiro, New York Times, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for foolproof

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foolproof was in 1874

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Cite this Entry

“Foolproof.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foolproof. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

foolproof

adjective
fool·​proof ˈfül-ˈprüf How to pronounce foolproof (audio)
: done, made, or planned so well that nothing can go wrong
foolproof directions

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