FOLLY

n.

4 definitions — Webster’s Dictionary (1828)


1.
n.

The state of being foolish; want of good sense; levity, weakness, or derangement of mind.

2.
n.

A foolish act; an inconsiderate or thoughtless procedure; weak or light-minded conduct; foolery. What folly 'tis to hazard life for ill. Shak.

3.
n.

Scandalous crime; sin; specifically, as applied to a woman, wantonness. [Achan] wrought folly in Israel. Josh. vii. 15. When lovely woman stoops to folly. Goldsmith.

4.
n.

The result of a foolish action or enterprise. It is called this man's or that man's "folly," and name of the foolish builder is thus kept alive for long after years. Trench.