goat

/gout/

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The word "goat" has a few different meanings, and I will explain them one by one.

Basic Definition:

1. Animal: A goat is a farm animal that is similar to a sheep but has a beard and straight horns. Goats are known for being very agile and can often climb steep hills. They are also often kept for their milk, meat, and wool.

   • Example: "The farmer has several goats in his barn."

2. Astrology: In astrology, "Goat" refers to the zodiac sign Capricorn. People born between December 22 and January 19 are said to be Capricorns.

   • Example: "She is a Capricorn, so she is born under the sign of the goat."

3. Victim of Ridicule: The term "goat" can also mean someone who is made fun of or is the target of jokes or pranks.

   • Example: "He became the goat of the group when he tripped and fell during the game."

Advanced Usage:

• In a more advanced context, "goat" can also refer to someone who is considered a "scapegoat," meaning they are unfairly blamed for something.
  • Example: "The manager made him the scapegoat for the project's failure, even though it wasn't his fault."

Word Variants:

• Goatish (adjective): Having the characteristics of a goat; sometimes used to describe someone who is playful or mischievous.
• Goat-like (adjective): Resembling a goat in behavior or appearance.

Different Meanings:

• Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.): In modern slang, "GOAT" (often written in all capital letters) refers to someone who is considered the best in a particular field, such as sports or music.
  • Example: "Many people consider Michael Jordan to be the GOAT of basketball."

Synonyms:

• For the animal: Buck (male goat), Nanny (female goat)
• For the zodiac sign: There are no direct synonyms, but people might refer to it as Capricorn.
• For someone who is ridiculed: Scapegoat, punching bag

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Get your goat": This idiom means to annoy someone.
  • Example: "It really gets my goat when people are late."

Summary:

• Goat can mean a farm animal, a zodiac sign (Capricorn), or someone who is made fun of.
• It's also used in modern slang to describe someone who is the greatest in their field.

Academic

Noun

1. the tenth sign of the zodiac; the sun is in this sign from about December 22 to January 19
2. (astrology) a person who is born while the sun is in Capricorn
3. a victim of ridicule or pranks
4. any of numerous agile ruminants related to sheep but having a beard and straight horns

Synonyms

• Capricorn
• Capricorn the Goat
• Goat
• butt
• laughingstock
• stooge
• caprine animal