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Definition of goose

goose

/ɡuːs/
goose

Plural:geese
•
Past Simple:goosed
•
Past Participle:goosed
•
Present Participle:goosing
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goose Lexical Profile

goose Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A large waterbird of the family Anatidae, characterized by a long neck, short legs, webbed feet, and a short broad bill, generally larger than a duck and smaller than a swan.

Example

"A flock of Canada geese flew overhead in a large V-formation as they migrated south for the winter."


2

The female of this waterbird, as distinguished from the male.

Example

"The farmer pointed out the goose sitting on her nest while the gander stood guard nearby."


3

A foolish, silly, or gullible person.

Example

"Don't be such a goose; just ask the teacher for help if you don't understand the assignment."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To stimulate, boost, or invigorate something in order to increase activity or performance.

Example

"The central bank attempted to goose the economy by significantly lowering interest rates."


2

To poke someone playfully, surprisingly, or inappropriately between the buttocks.

Example

"The comedian goosed his co-star on stage, prompting an exaggerated yelp of surprise."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for goose

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'gōs', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'gans' and German 'Gans', from an Indo-European root shared by Latin 'anser' and Greek 'khēn'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Goose. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/goose
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