# goon

/ˈɡun/ (US) · /ɡˈuːn/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/goon
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a person who is hired to threaten or hurt others. It can also mean someone who acts in a silly or stupid way.

For teachers: a person hired to intimidate or harm others, often acting as a low-level enforcer for a criminal or organization. In modern slang, it can also refer to a foolish or eccentric person.

## Examples

- The boss sent a goon to collect the money.
- The politician was surrounded by goons who prevented the reporters from asking any difficult questions.

## Usage notes

- Often used in a derogatory or humorous way depending on the context of violence versus silliness.

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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.