gudgeon /ˈɡʌdʒən/noun 8verb 2forms 3 noun8 •A small freshwater fish of species Gobio gobio, native to Eurasia.[…] Ile tell thee more of this another time. / But fish not with this melancholy baite, / For this foole gudgin, this opinion: […] — 1596 •[before a noun] A circular or cylindrical fitting, often made of metal, into which a pin or pintle fits to create a hinge or pivoting joint. •In a vessel with a stern-mounted rudder: the fitting into which the pintle of the rudder fits, allowing the rudder to swing freely.This afternoon the gudgeon of the rudder belonging to the large cutter, was drawn out and stolen, without being perceived by the man that was stationed to take care of her. — 1792 •(Australia) Any of various similar small fish of the family Eleotridae, often used as bait.The southern purple-spotted gudgeon [Mogurnda adspersa] can be hard to find. Although colourful, they are thin and only grow up to 12 centimetres. — 2012 •Any of various other fish, similar in appearance and principally in families Butidae and Eleotridae. •(Canada) Cottus bairdii, more widely known as mottled sculpin. •(figurative, no longer used) A person apt to take the bait; one easily cheated or duped; also, an idiot."Don't be a gudgeon," she grumbled, tugging at the dress much more fiercely than was necessary. "If this works as you say it will, nobody will notice me." — 2004 •(figurative, no longer used) Something used to lure or tempt; bait, a lure. verb2 •(no longer used) To deprive (someone) fraudulently; to cheat, to dupe.I have seen when you were willing to tie his points or brush his cloak, or the like—and to be treated thus ungratefully—and gudgeoned of the opportunities which had been given you— — 1826 •(no longer used) To take the bait; to be defrauded or duped. formsgudgeoned · gudgeoning · gudgeons
