What does goggly mean?
Goggly is an informal adjective describing a conspicuously wide-eyed appearance, especially one in which the eyes seem to bulge, protrude, or stare dramatically. It can refer to the eyes themselves, as in “goggly eyes,” or to a person's overall expression or appearance. The word often carries a humorous or mildly exaggerated quality and is especially effective when describing cartoonish surprise, amazement, or comic inquisitiveness. Although it is most firmly established in British English, it is also used in American English. Goggly is closely related in meaning to goggle-eyed and can sometimes suggest a deliberately exaggerated stare rather than a medical condition. It works well in descriptive prose, comedy, and character writing, where its vivid sound and imagery reinforce the appearance of oversized, expressive eyes.
adjectiveHaving bulging or protruding eyes, especially as a conspicuous physical characteristic; wide-eyed and staring.
- Having eyes that bulge or protrude, giving a conspicuously wide-eyed or staring appearance.
"The cartoonist gave the character huge, goggly eyes and an expression of perpetual surprise."
"She stared at the impossible staircase with wide, goggly eyes."
"The comedian's goggly expression made the audience burst into laughter."
Goggly captures the unmistakably wide-eyed look of someone whose eyes seem to be doing overtime.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does goggly come from?
Goggly was formed in English by adding the suffix -y to goggle, an older word associated with bulging or staring eyes. The same root also produced goggles and goggle-eyed; goggles originally referred to spectacles or lenses worn over the eyes. The ultimate origin of the root is uncertain, so a more specific ancestral language cannot be stated confidently.
Related word forms
How goggly is actually used
Informal and often humorous, this word can describe a person's eyes, face, expression, or appearance. It is especially common in British English but is also used in American English.