# gob

/ˈɡɑb/ (US) · /ɡˈɒb/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gob
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a mouth, or a wet lump of something like spit. It is a very informal word that can sound a bit rude or dirty depending on how you use it.

For teachers: a mouth; also refers to a lump or clot of a slimy substance, such as phlegm or saliva. Primarily British and Australian slang; often carries a crude or impolite tone.

## Examples

- He told the noisy man to shut his gob.
- The worker spat a large gob of phlegm onto the pavement before continuing his walk.

## Usage notes

- Informal and often considered crude; 'shut your gob' is a common but impolite way to tell someone to be quiet.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.