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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As Cuenca plays a ball to the feet of his striker, Wilson dashes in the other direction, delaying Ibrahima Konate’s forward jump because the centre-back knows Bradley is unable to track both him and Robinson at the same time.—
Ahmed Walid, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
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In the dark romantic comedy-drama, True Blood alum Skarsgård, 49, plays tough biker Ray, who enters into a dominant-submissive relationship with Colin (Melling), a shy and directionless man who sings in a barbershop quartet.—
Verb
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His multicourse omakase shows off the chef’s restrained minimalist Edomae style and love of aged fish.—
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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.—
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.—
Verb
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Turquoise pearl, and azure line the space, and a cylindrical hanging light sculpture made of hundreds of white and gold ceramic fish hangs about the lounge seating area.—
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The hot air just hangs about, causing the dish to cook unevenly with some spots nearly raw and others burnt.—
Verb
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But if your transmission acts up or your steering system goes haywire, car insurance won't help you.—
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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.—
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Cite this Entry
“Fools around.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fools%20around. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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