goombah
Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word goombah. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word goombah, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say goombah in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word goombah you have here. The definition of the word goombah will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition ofgoombah, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology 1
From Neapolitan cumpà and Sicilian cumpari (“buddy, pal”, akin to Italian compare, Spanish compadre, from Latin compater, literally “godfather”), a word often used to refer to “family friends” or friends close enough to be considered an “aunt” or “uncle”, though not related by blood.
To an English-speaking ear, the unaspirated stops of Southern Italian dialects (especially Neapolitan) are interpreted as voiced stops, yielding goombah. Compare South American Spanish cumpa. Doublet of compadre, compeer, and compere.
Alternative forms
Pronunciation
Noun
goombah (plural goombahs)
- (US, slang, derogatory, ethnic slur) A person of Italian descent (often implies the person is connected to Italian organized crime)
- (US, slang) A companion, pal, close friend, or associate, especially among Italian-American men. It sometimes has the connotation of an older friend who acts as a patron, protector or adviser.
Translations
person of Italian descent — see wop
Etymology 2
Noun
goombah (plural goombahs)
- Alternative form of gumbe, a Jamaican drum.