What is the meaning of ‘gooner’? Slang goes viral as confusion erupts online

The term ‘gooner’ has gained widespread usage on social media, however, there is some uncertainty surrounding its definition. The following will clarify its meaning according to regional interpretation.

Ever since actress Anne Hathaway was labeled a “secret Gooner”by British news outlet The Guardian on April 24, 2024, the terms ‘gooner’ and ‘gooning’ have been gaining popularity on social media. Despite being in use for some time, it was this particular X post that sparked their recent viral status.

The comments below the post are filled with American netizens who are unsure of the meaning of the term ‘gooner’ in the United Kingdom, as it holds a distinct connotation in the US.

what does gooner mean in britishbecause this is very funny

— notsofast (@notsofast) April 24, 2024

Fear not, for we are here to clarify the meaning of the term ‘gooner’ and why its interpretation may vary depending on the location.

‘Gooning,’ ‘Gooner’ definitions explained

For those unfamiliar, the term ‘gooning’ carries a rather risque connotation in America (and in internet slang in general).

To avoid going into too much detail, the term typically describes someone who takes pleasure in a “prolonged edging session,”as defined by an UrbanDictionary user on February 10, 2012.

Over the following twelve years, the term ‘gooning’ has gained popularity. Its meaning has also become a popular meme, as evidenced by the uncontrollable laughter of YouTubers The Game Grumps while reading it aloud in a 2023 video.

In addition, other prominent YouTubers, such as MoistCritikal, have also adopted the term and even organized a dating show for five ‘gooners’ in March 2024.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79cJNvrSbQY

Other interpretations of this word suggest that it also describes individuals who are hopelessly and tragically obsessed with p*rnography, yet openly embrace and enjoy it.

Despite its suggestive connotation, the term ‘gooner’ does not always have a sexual meaning. In fact, across the pond, it holds a more innocent definition. In the world of football (or soccer, for the American audience), it is used to describe a devoted supporter of the Arsenal football club.

This phrase originated from the club’s moniker, the Gunners, which eventually evolved into Gooners. Nowadays, when someone proudly identifies as a ‘Gooner,’ they are most likely talking about their beloved football club…but it never hurts to double-check for clarification.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the term ‘goon’ has multiple meanings. It can refer to a “stupid person”and also to “a man hired to terrorize or eliminate opponents.”

Therefore, although the term ‘goon’ may have multiple interpretations, the specific circumstances and location may provide clarification on its intended meaning. However, with the widespread use of the internet, the phrase has acquired a completely different connotation.