Have you ever caught someone staring into space, lost in thought, and wondered what they were thinking about? That dreamy, distracted state is exactly what the quirky idiom “be wool-gathering” describes. It’s one of those English idioms that paints a vivid picture while expressing a common human experience.
Meaning:
The meaning of “be wool-gathering” is to be daydreaming or lost in thought, often in a way that makes someone seem absent-minded or distracted. When someone is wool-gathering, they’re mentally wandering, not paying attention to what’s happening around them. It’s one of those common idioms and expressions that adds color to everyday conversation.
Origin:
The idiom dates back to the 16th century, when “wool-gathering” referred to the literal act of collecting stray bits of wool caught on bushes and fences. Over time, it came to symbolize aimless wandering—both physically and mentally.
Examples in Sentences:
During the meeting, I realized I’d been wool-gathering and missed half of what was said.
She tends to be wool-gathering whenever she’s thinking about her next vacation.
“Stop wool-gathering and focus!” the teacher said as I stared out the window.
Usage Tips:
Use “be wool-gathering” when describing someone who’s mentally checked out or lost in thought. It’s great for casual conversations, storytelling, or even humorous observations. Just make sure the context is light-hearted—it’s not meant to criticize, just to describe a moment of distraction.
Fun Fact:
In Shakespeare’s time, wool-gathering wasn’t just a metaphor—it was a real chore! People would collect loose wool from hedges to reuse it, making the idiom both practical and poetic.
Conclusion:
To be wool-gathering is to drift into your own thoughts, often without realizing it. Whether you’re daydreaming about lunch or imagining your next big idea, this idiom captures that mental meandering perfectly.
💬 Did you enjoy learning about this idiom? Explore more idioms and their meanings here to boost your English skills!