verb
goggle
GOG-uhl
Goggle (verb) means to stare at something with wide, bulging eyes, usually in astonishment. Example: “The children goggled at the size of the cake.”
verb
1
To stare at something with wide, bulging eyes, usually in astonishment.
"The children goggled at the size of the cake."
"He stood goggling as the car reversed straight into the fountain."
noun
1
Close-fitting protective eyewear with a seal around the eyes, worn for swimming, skiing, welding or lab work. Almost always used in the plural, goggles.
"You can't enter the workshop without safety goggles."
"Her goggles fogged up on the first length."
How to use goggle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo stare open-eyed at something, or the protective glasses you strap on.
When to use it
The verb is slightly old-fashioned and comic; the plural noun is entirely ordinary.
Memory tip
Goggles is a plural-only noun like trousers: say a pair of goggles, never a goggle.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
goggle vs. Google
goggles vs. glasses
goggle vs. boggle
Common pairings
goggle at
swimming goggles
safety goggles
ski goggles
beer goggles
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The children _____ at the size of the cake.
Etymology
From 14th century Middle English gogelen (“to roll (eyes), to look sideways”). Earlier source is unknown. The noun is attested from the 17th century. Compare Irish gog (“a nod, a slight motion”).
Related words
Rhymes for goggle
See all rhymes for goggle →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between goggles and glasses?
Glasses rest on the nose and ears with open sides. Goggles are strapped on and sit flush against the face, sealing the eyes off from water, dust, chemicals or wind. Goggles are worn for protection, glasses usually for vision correction.
Is goggle related to Google?
Not as a matter of established fact. Goggle is a much older English verb meaning to stare, and Google is a company name; any account linking the two should be treated as speculation.
What is the meaning of goggle?
"goggle" (verb) means to stare at something with wide, bulging eyes, usually in astonishment.
What is another word for goggle?
Other words for "goggle" include gape, gawp, stare, gawk, boggle, eye protection.
