Gunge
/ɡʌndʒ/noun
A thick, sticky, unpleasant substance.
Did you know?Unlike many vivid English words, gunge has no securely documented older root; lexicographers generally classify its origin as unknown, possibly connected to similar sound-symbolic words such as “gunk.”
Etymological Timeline
Before the 20th Century
Unknown
—
“No securely documented precursor or etymological source has been established.”
Early 20th Century
English
gunge
“Possible early informal usage, but the surviving evidence and origin remain uncertain.”
1950s
British English
gunge
“Recorded as slang for a thick, sticky, unpleasant substance.”
Modern English
English
gunge
“A gooey or slimy substance, often used for messy practical jokes, television stunts, or childish play.”