goggles
GOG-ulz
/ˈɡɒɡəlz/
Close-fitting eyeglasses with side shields, for protecting the eyes from water, dust, or chemicals.
In this context, specifically refers to the small, watertight glasses used by swimmers.
The story behind the word. The word comes from the Middle English 'gogelen', which meant to roll the eyes or look sideways. It eventually came to describe the eyewear that makes you look like you have bulging eyes.
Commonly confused with
- mask: A mask covers the nose as well (used in snorkeling); goggles only cover the eyes.
Word family
- goggle (verb): To look with wide eyes.
Collocations
- swimming goggles
- safety goggles
- tinted goggles
Example sentences
- "Always rinse your goggles with fresh water after swimming in a chlorinated pool." Swimming tip
- "The swimmer adjusted his goggles one last time before the starting whistle." Olympic news
Memory hook
You 'goggle' at the fish through your 'goggles'. Eye protection.
When not to use
Don't confuse with 'glasses' (for vision) or 'sunglasses' (for sun).
Fun facts
- The first swimming goggles were made from tortoise shells in the 14th century.
Related words
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