1
as in horses around
to engage in attention-getting playful or boisterous behavior
quit fooling around on the jungle gym, or you'll get hurt
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in plays
to spend time in aimless activity
we fooled around outdoors for a while, then went in to get some work done
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fools around
Verb
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The military plays only an advisory role in the American system, giving input to the president’s deliberations but not otherwise independently adjudicating whether his or her decision is wise.—
Peter D. Feaver,
Foreign Affairs,
12 Nov. 2025 -
Ahead of Sunday’s premiere, Randolph and actress Ali Larter, who plays Ainsley’s mother on the show, spoke to the Star-Telegram about the Norris family dynamic going into season 2.—
Brayden Garcia,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
11 Nov. 2025
Verb
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Finally, Florida cranberry (Hibiscus sabdariffa) shows off stunning, edible red calyces that remain once flowers have fallen and can be used in a variety of recipes for baked goods, stews, chutneys, or simply for making tea.—
Joshua Siskin,
Oc Register,
8 Nov. 2025
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In the after photo, the actor shows off his muscular physique in shorts and a tank top.—
Madison E. Goldberg,
PEOPLE,
27 Oct. 2025
Verb
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As far as home finds, pick up this fall-scented candle and a lightweight handheld vacuum to tackle quick messes around the house.—
Isabel Garcia,
PEOPLE,
8 Oct. 2025
Verb
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The hot air just hangs about, causing the dish to cook unevenly with some spots nearly raw and others burnt.—
New Atlas,
New Atlas,
4 Nov. 2025
Verb
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In the cold and austere German winter (a far cry from Dakar’s physical and cultural warmth), an anxious Nourou acts up outside a hotel and is accosted by a Polish security guard, setting off a minor chain reaction in which Maja intervenes on his behalf, much to his chagrin.—
Siddhant Adlakha,
Variety,
28 Sep. 2025
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The kid acts up, the dad disciplines him and mom just sends a sorry text.—
Hannah Sacks,
PEOPLE,
22 Sep. 2025
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“Fools around.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fools%20around. Accessed 15 Nov. 2025.
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