goings-on

plural noun

go·​ings-on ˌgō-iŋ-ˈzȯn 

ˌgȯ(-)iŋ-,

-ˈzän

1

: actions, events

2

: irregular or reprehensible happenings or conduct

Examples of goings-on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But the people of Africa matter to James’ Sarah, who’s stepping up to blow the whistle about the nefarious goings-on. —Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 9 Sep. 2024

The series does an excellent job of reconciling world events with the personal goings-on of Britain’s royal family, concluding with the death of Prince Diana and the courtship of Prince William and Kate Middleton. —Gia Yetikyel, Vogue, 8 Sep. 2024

Over the entire lifetime of the treaty, however, only around 60 inspections have occurred—not exactly enough to keep a sharp eye on the goings-on. —Sarah Scoles, Scientific American, 4 Sep. 2024

There are a number of third-party events and other goings-on held around the city. —Emma Specter, Vogue, 16 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

goings-on

plural noun

go·​ings-on

ˌgō-iŋ-ˈzȯn,

-ˈän

: actions or events that are taking place