DictionarygoonFoolish person
noun

goon

A silly or foolish person.

The comedy's lovable goon keeps misunderstanding simple instructions.

Etymology

Goon began as a slang label for a foolish or awkward person. Later associations with an intimidating hired thug are extensions of the personal label, rather than the starting point for its foolish-person sense.

More examples

  • He called himself a goon after the mistake.
  • The two goons stumbled through the scene.
  • She regretted using goon as an insult.

Forms

goon · goons

Similar words

fool
A broader label for poor judgment.
oaf
Emphasizes awkwardness or lack of manners.