Oaf

Pronunciation: /oʊf/

Definitions of oaf

noun a clumsy, stupid person; a bumpkin or yokel

Example Sentences

A1 The oaf accidentally knocked over the vase.

A2 The clumsy oaf tripped over his own feet.

B1 The oafish behavior of the man made everyone uncomfortable.

B2 Despite his size, he was often called an oaf because of his clumsiness.

C1 The oaf's lack of manners was evident to all who met him.

C2 His reputation as an oaf preceded him wherever he went.

Examples of oaf in a Sentence

formal The oaf stumbled clumsily through the crowded room, knocking over a vase in his path.

informal Don't be such an oaf and help me carry these boxes.

slang That guy is such an oaf, he can't even tie his own shoelaces.

figurative Her boss was an oaf when it came to understanding new technology.

Grammatical Forms of oaf

• past tense: oafed
• plural: oafs
• comparative: more oafish
• superlative: most oafish
• present tense: oafs
• future tense: will oaf
• perfect tense: have oafed
• continuous tense: is oafing
• singular: oaf
• positive degree: oafish
• infinitive: to oaf
• gerund: oafing
• participle: oafed

Origin and Evolution of oaf

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'oaf' originated from Middle English, influenced by Old Norse word 'alfi' meaning 'elf'. It was used to refer to a foolish or clumsy person.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'oaf' shifted from its original meaning of 'elf' to denote a person who is dull-witted or awkward.