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play gooseberry. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
play gooseberry, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
play gooseberry in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
play gooseberry you have here. The definition of the word
play gooseberry will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
play gooseberry, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Verb
play gooseberry (third-person singular simple present plays gooseberry, present participle playing gooseberry, simple past and past participle played gooseberry)
- (dated, UK slang) To be an unwanted third party accompanying two lovers, to serve as a chaperon.
1915, Lucy Maud Montgomery, “In the Park”, in Anne of the Island:"Well, new experiences are broadening. Come along, and you'll be able to sympathize with all poor souls who have to play gooseberry often.
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References
- Albert Barrère and Charles G[odfrey] Leland, compilers and editors (1889–1890) “play gooseberry”, in A Dictionary of Slang, Jargon & Cant , volume I (A–K), Edinburgh: The Ballantyne Press, →OCLC, page 419.
- John S[tephen] Farmer; W[illiam] E[rnest] Henley, compilers (1893) “play gooseberry”, in Slang and Its Analogues Past and Present. , volume III, Harrison and Sons] , →OCLC, page 183.