Gaggle: meaning, definitions and examples

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gaggle

 

[ ˈɡæɡ.əl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

group of geese

A gaggle refers to a gathering of geese when they are on the ground or swimming in water. This term is most commonly used to describe a group of domestic or wild geese. The term captures the social nature of these birds, which often flock together for protection and social interaction. Gaggles are typically noisy, with the honking and chatter of the geese being a distinctive feature of their gatherings.

Synonyms

flock, group, herd

Examples of usage

  • We spotted a gaggle of geese near the pond.
  • The gaggle honked loudly as they waddled across the field.
  • A gaggle of geese is a common sight in the park during spring.
Context #2 | Noun

crowd of people

In a more colloquial sense, 'gaggle' can also describe a disorderly or noisy group of people. This usage conveys a sense of chaos or lack of organization among the individuals involved. Often, it is used humorously to describe a group that is overly chatty or animated. This figurative use has become more popular in informal contexts, especially when referring to social gatherings.

Synonyms

crowd, horde, mob

Examples of usage

  • The gaggle of friends filled the cafe with laughter.
  • A gaggle of children ran around the playground.
  • During the event, a gaggle of reporters gathered to interview the speaker.

Translations

Translations of the word "gaggle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bando de gansos

🇮🇳 गुंडागर्दी

🇩🇪 Gänsemarsch

🇮🇩 gerombolan angsa

🇺🇦 гусине стадо

🇵🇱 stado gęsi

🇯🇵 ガーグル

🇫🇷 troupe de oies

🇪🇸 bandada de gansos

🇹🇷 ördek sürüsü

🇰🇷 거위 떼

🇸🇦 مجموعة من الإوز

🇨🇿 houf husí

🇸🇰 húf husi

🇨🇳 鹅群

🇸🇮 jato gosi

🇮🇸 gæsahópur

🇰🇿 қаздар тобы

🇬🇪 ბატკების ჯგუფი

🇦🇿 məsələ qrup

🇲🇽 bandada de gansos

Word origin

The word 'gaggle' comes from the Middle English term 'gaggyl,' which is thought to be derived from the sound of geese. This is linked to the Old English word 'gægel,' referring to the honking noise that geese make. The term began to take its modern form in the 16th century when it became associated specifically with a group of geese. Over time, the meaning of the word has expanded to include groups of people, emphasizing noisy and uncontrolled behavior. The etymology connects closely with the expressive and often loud nature of both geese and social gatherings. As language evolves, the contextual usage of 'gaggle' continues to be shaped by cultural norms and practices, illustrating how a term can transcend its original meaning while maintaining its lively connotation.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,325 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.