An Oaf (derogatory) A person, especially a large male, who is clumsy or a simpleton. (obsolete) An elf's child; a changeling left by fairies or goblins, hence, a deformed or foolish child. Synonyms (clumsy or idiotic person): dummy, galoot, imbecile, lout, moron, fool (elf's child): auf, swapling