Goon

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɡuːn/

Definitions

1. A hired thug or enforcer, often used for intimidation or violence.

2. A foolish or clumsy person.

3. (Australian slang) Cheap boxed wine.

Usage Examples

1. The gangster sent his goon to collect the money.

2. He tripped over his own feet like a goon.

3. They spent the weekend drinking goon at the beach.

Etymology

Derived from the 1920s American slang term for a simpleton, possibly from "gooney" (a sailor's term for an albatross).

Synonyms

Thug, enforcer, brute, oaf, lout, henchman

Antonyms

Gentleman, protector, intellectual, refined person

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

American English: /ɡuːn/

British English: /ɡuːn/

Australian English (for boxed wine): /ɡʊn/

Historical Usage

First recorded in the early 20th century in American slang as an insult, later evolving to describe violent enforcers during the labor conflicts of the 1920s and 30s.

Cultural Nuances

In the U.S., "goon" often refers to criminal enforcers, while in Australia, it is slang for cheap boxed wine, giving it a humorous connotation.

More Information

The term "goon squad" became widely used in the 20th century to describe groups of hired thugs used for intimidation. The Australian slang "goon" for cheap wine is derived from an Aboriginal word meaning "pillow" or "cushion," referring to the soft wine bags inside the box.