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Goon: meaning, definitions and examples

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goon

 

[ ɡuːn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

criminal

A goon is a hired thug or enforcer, often associated with criminal activities. They are typically involved in acts of violence, intimidation, or coercion.

Synonyms

bully, enforcer, thug

Examples of usage

  • He sent his goons to intimidate the witness.
  • The goons threatened to break his legs if he didn't pay up.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

In slang, a goon can also refer to a foolish or silly person.

Synonyms

buffoon, fool, idiot

Examples of usage

  • Don't listen to him, he's just a silly goon.
  • She's always acting like a total goon.

Translations

Translations of the word "goon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 capanga

🇮🇳 गुंडा

🇩🇪 Handlanger

🇮🇩 preman

🇺🇦 головоріз

🇵🇱 bandzior

🇯🇵 チンピラ (chinpira)

🇫🇷 brute

🇪🇸 matón

🇹🇷 kabadayı

🇰🇷 깡패 (kkangpae)

🇸🇦 بلطجي

🇨🇿 násilník

🇸🇰 násilník

🇨🇳 打手 (dǎshǒu)

🇸🇮 nasilnež

🇮🇸 ofbeldismaður

🇰🇿 қылмыскер

🇬🇪 ბანდიტი

🇦🇿 qanqara

🇲🇽 matón

Word origin

The term 'goon' originated in the 16th century, derived from the obsolete verb 'goon', meaning 'to gaze or stare stupidly'. Over time, the word evolved to refer to a hired thug or enforcer, likely due to the intimidating nature of such individuals. In modern slang, 'goon' has also taken on a more lighthearted meaning to describe someone who is foolish or silly.

See also: forego, forgo, go, goad, gofer, going, gone, ongoing, outgoing, undergo.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,598 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.