Gudgeon

Definition

A small freshwater fish (family Gobiidae) commonly found in European streams, or alternatively, the socket or bearing pin that a door hinge rotates on; also used as slang for a gullible or easily deceived person.

Example Usage

The carpenter replaced the worn gudgeons on the old gate so the hinges would swing smoothly again.

Origin

From Old French 'goujon,' likely imitative of the fish's sound; the mechanical meaning derives from the resemblance of the pin to the fish.

Fun Fact

In fishing slang, a 'gudgeon' or 'swallow a gudgeon' means to be easily duped, because the fish is supposedly simple to catch.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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