green goose

English

Noun

green goose (plural green geese)

1. A young goose, especially under four years old. [from 15th c.]
   • c. 1595–1596 (date written), William Shakespeare, “Loues Labour’s Lost”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, →OCLC, [Act I, scene i]:

     The Spring is neare when greene geese are a breeding.

   • 1793 April 4, Hester Piozzi, Thraliana:

     My green Goose for this last Entertainment cost but 15s.

2. (now rare) A fool, a simpleton. [from 18th c.]

Anagrams

• Goose Green