stooge
|stooge|
/stuːdʒ/
subservient assistant / puppet
Etymology
'stooge' originates from 19th-century English theatrical slang, used to describe a stage helper or comic foil.
'stooge' appears in late 1800s theatrical jargon (often written 'stoog' or 'stoogey') and evolved into the modern English word 'stooge' with its broader senses.
Initially it meant 'a stage assistant or comic foil,' but over time it broadened to include 'a person who is used or manipulated by others' (a patsy or puppet).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who acts as an assistant, helper, or subordinate, especially one who is used or manipulated by another (often as a decoy or fall guy).
He was only a stooge for the corrupt officials, doing whatever they told him.
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Noun 2
a comic foil or supporting performer in a comedic act (as in slapstick routines, e.g., one of 'The Three Stooges').
She played the stooge in the sketch, taking the pratfalls while the comic delivered the punchlines.
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Noun 3
informal: a foolish or ineffectual person who is easily manipulated.
Don't be a stooge—think for yourself instead of doing what others want.
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Last updated: 2025/12/18 18:54