Homonym: Goon (Hooligan)
A "goon" is a term often used to describe a person who is hired to intimidate or enforce compliance, typically in a criminal or underworld context. Goon squads may be associated with organized crime, where they carry out tasks that involve threats or violence to achieve their goals. The term can also refer to someone who is perceived as foolish or clumsy.
In popular culture, "goon" can be used more lightheartedly to describe a silly or goofy person. In sports, particularly in ice hockey, a goon is a player known for their fighting skills rather than their technical abilities, often protecting teammates from aggressive opponents.