Gooned: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 16, 2023

"Gooned" is a slang expression, usually referring to being drunk or intoxicated to the point of behaving foolishly. It can also refer to someone behaving in an odd or foolish way, irrespective of intoxication.

In short:

"Gooned" typically means being drunk to the point of foolish behavior, or acting in a foolish or odd manner.

What Does "Gooned" Mean?

The idiom "gooned" generally refers to the state of being heavily intoxicated and acting foolishly or simply acting foolishly, regardless of alcohol consumption. This term has its roots in contemporary slang and is mostly used in informal contexts.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Typically refers to drunken foolishness.
  • It may also denote odd or foolish behavior in general.
  • It can also be used as a verb, meaning to drink heavily

The term's usage can vary significantly based on context, often leaning toward humorous or light-hearted situations.

Where Does "Gooned" Come From?

The word “gooned” is a slang term that means to be drunk or under the influence of drugs. The origin of this word is unclear, but it may have originated in the early 1900s. The word “goon,” meaning “hired thug,” is derived from "gony," the shortened form of “gooney.” While the term is versatile and widely recognized, its usage implies a level of informality and casualness. Therefore, it's most appropriate in relaxed settings, parties, or humorous contexts.

Historical Example

"More and more Americans find it desirable for a huge audience to bear witness to whatever gooned-out, shallow, pathetic, sick, empty life they're currently leading."

- Bill Maher, Does Anybody Have a Problem with That, 2010

10 Examples of "Gooned" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • After having a blast at the party, Mike was completely gooned.
  • She acted so gooned at the meeting, making silly jokes and laughing uncontrollably.
  • We were all gooned on the last night of the vacation, dancing and singing until dawn.
  • Thanks for checking up on me; I was so tired I felt gooned.
  • He drank so much at the party that he gooned out and started talking to a plant.
  • My friends and I got a little gooned at the bar last night and had to take a taxi home.
  • About last night, she felt a bit gooned and couldn't focus on her work.
  • Despite being gooned at the party, Mike still managed to have an uncanny way of attracting attention.
  • After the third round of drinks, we were all gooned and decided it was time to call it a night.
  • Right back at you! I'm certain you'll be just as gooned after your next beer.

Examples of "Gooned" in Pop Culture

The term "gooned" is quite prevalent in pop culture, typically appearing in contexts related to parties, humorous situations, or scenarios involving alcohol consumption.

Some examples include:

  • "l was completely vulnerable and gooned out" is a quote from Al Kooper's memoir "Backstage Passes & Backstabbing B*stards."
  • "Gooned Up" is a song by American rapper Project Pat (Patrick Earl Houston).

Other/Different Ways to Say "Gooned"

There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "gooned."

Some of these include:

  • Wasted
  • Plastered
  • Hammered
  • Sloshed
  • Drunk

These alternatives can be used interchangeably, depending on the context and the degree of intoxication or foolish behavior involved.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Gooned"

  • Is "gooned" a formal expression?

"Gooned" is considered informal and is typically used in casual, relaxed contexts, often related to parties or humorous situations.

  • Can people use the idiom sarcastically?

Yes, the term can be used sarcastically to emphasize someone's foolish behavior or lack of sobriety, even if they are not actually intoxicated.

  • Is the phrase appropriate for professional settings?

No, "gooned" is an informal term and is generally not suitable for professional or formal settings.

  • Can people use the phrase in written communication?

While the term can be used in informal written communication, such as text messages or social media posts, it is not typically used in formal writing.

  • Is it okay to use the phrase at work?

Using "gooned" at work is generally not advisable and could be seen as unprofessional, depending on the formality of the workplace. It is best used only in informal situations with close coworkers.

  • Can strangers use the phrase "gooned"?

As with any slang term, its usage between strangers would depend on the level of formality of the interaction. It might be considered inappropriate or unprofessional in more formal or unfamiliar situations.

  • Is it okay to use the phrase when talking about a group of people?

Yes, it can be used to describe a group's behavior, such as "the crowd at the concert was completely gooned."

  • What's the difference between "gooned" and "messed up"?

While similar in meaning, "gooned" implies foolishness or silliness as well as mistakes, whereas "messed up" has a broader range of usage. "Gooned" also often suggests that the error could have been easily avoided by thinking more clearly. "Messed up" is typically a less judgmental phrase.

  • What's the difference between "gooned" and "drunk"?

While both phrases imply intoxication, "gooned" often carries an additional connotation of foolish, silly, or ridiculous behavior, whereas "drunk" is a more straightforward term for alcohol-induced impairment.

  • Can one use the phrase in a scientific context?

No, "gooned" is an informal term usually associated with parties or humorous situations, and it is not typically used in scientific contexts.

Final Thoughts About "Gooned"

In conclusion, the idiom "gooned" is a colloquial expression often used to describe a state of intoxication coupled with silly or foolish behavior. While it is a flexible and commonly understood phrase in many English-speaking regions, it is important to remember its informal nature and to use it appropriately, depending on the context and audience.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Describes a state of intoxication and silly behavior
  • It is informal and typically used in casual or humorous contexts
  • It is not suitable for formal or professional situations

While the word "goon" is not considered to be offensive, it is important to use it in the right context. If you are not sure whether or not it is appropriate to use the word, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid using it.

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