1 : lack of good sense or normal prudence and foresight his folly in thinking he could not be caught. 2a : criminally or tragically foolish actions or conduct. b obsolete : evil, wickedness especially : lewd behavior. 3 : a foolish act or idea The prank was a youthful folly.

What does folly mean in Old English?

Folly comes from the Old French word folie meaning "madness, stupidity." It can describe the silly or nonsensical things you do, like the folly of trying to rush across town in the middle of a snowstorm.

Does folly mean foolishness?

The word folly dates back to the early 13th century, originally meaning “foolishness” or “unwise conduct.” It comes from a French word meaning “mad,” as in “deranged.” In its plural form, follies has referred to “absurdities” since at least the 1400s.