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Definition of gudgeon

gudgeon

/ˈɡʌdʒ.ən/
gud · geon

Plural:gudgeons
•
Past Simple:gudgeoned
•
Past Participle:gudgeoned
•
Present Participle:gudgeoning
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gudgeon Lexical Profile

gudgeon Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A metal pivot, journal, or pin projecting from the end of a shaft, or the corresponding tubular socket that receives such a pivot (e.g., a piston pin in an engine).

Example

"The mechanic had to replace the gudgeon pin because it had worn down, causing the piston to rattle in the cylinder."


2

A small, bottom-dwelling Eurasian freshwater fish (family Cyprinidae, typically Gobio gobio) that is commonly used as bait by anglers.

Example

"The older fisherman waded into the stream, hoping to catch a few gudgeons to use as live bait."


3

A highly gullible person who is easily deceived, cheated, or taken advantage of.

Example

"The con artists traveled from town to town, always looking for a wealthy gudgeon to invest in their fake railway company."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To cheat, trick, or make a dupe out of someone.

Example

"The corrupt official successfully gudgeoned the investors out of thousands of dollars before fleeing the country."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for gudgeon

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'gojoun', borrowed from Anglo-French 'gojoun', which traces back to Latin 'gobio' or 'gobius', meaning a small fish (a goby).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gudgeon. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gudgeon
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