ENGLISH
REFERENCE

goods

n.
US //ˈɡʊdz// UK //ɡˈʊdz// goods
  1. 1 products for sale (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Economics

    items that are made to be bought and sold.

    merchandise or possessions; items produced for trade and consumption.

    Example

    The shop sells a wide range of leather goods, including bags and belts.

    Example

    The global supply chain was disrupted, leading to a significant shortage of consumer goods across several major retail sectors.
  2. 2 freight (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    items that are carried by a train, truck, or ship, rather than people.

    freight or cargo transported by road, rail, or sea, as distinct from passengers.

    Example

    A goods train blocked the tracks for several hours after the engine failed.

    Example

    The station was originally designed to handle both passengers and heavy goods, though the freight yard has since been converted into a car park.
Show 2 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 the truth or evidence (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal

    the real facts or evidence about someone, especially if they have done something wrong.

    incriminating evidence or the authentic facts regarding a situation or person.

    Example

    The police finally got the goods on the thief after finding the stolen money.

    Example

    The investigative journalist spent months undercover, eventually delivering the goods on the company's illegal waste disposal practices.
  2. 4 talent or quality (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal

    the skills or qualities needed to do a job well.

    the necessary ability, quality, or competence required for a specific task.

    Example

    The new striker really has the goods and scored three goals in his first game.

    Example

    Despite his lack of formal experience, the board felt the candidate had the goods to lead the firm through the upcoming merger.
Idioms7 entries

© 2026 English Reference