gonzales: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Colloquial, Humorous
Quick answer
What does “gonzales” mean?
A proper noun, originally a Spanish surname.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun, originally a Spanish surname.
When used informally, it can function as a humorous or slang term meaning "to leave quickly" (especially in the phrase "do a gonzales") or as a generic placeholder name for a person.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The slang usage ('to do a gonzales') is understood in both varieties but is slightly more prevalent in British English due to the cartoon's popularity there. In American English, it is less common as a verb and primarily recognized as the character's name.
Connotations
Informal, humorous, slightly dated (referencing mid-late 20th century cartoons). Can carry stereotypical undertones related to the character.
Frequency
As slang: Rare. As a surname or reference to the character: Low-medium.
Grammar
How to Use “gonzales” in a Sentence
do (a/verb) + GonzalesVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gonzales” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- I don't like this party; let's do a gonzales.
American English
- The moment he saw the cops, he did a Speedy Gonzales.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Informal reference to leaving quickly or to a person with that surname.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gonzales”
- Using 'gonzales' as a regular verb without 'do a' (e.g., 'I gonzales' is incorrect).
- Capitalizing incorrectly when used as slang (often lower-case 'g' in 'do a gonzales').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is primarily a proper noun (surname). The slang usage meaning 'to leave quickly' is informal and not found in standard dictionaries.
No, it is strictly informal and colloquial. Use only in casual conversation or humorous contexts.
It derives from the Looney Tunes cartoon character 'Speedy Gonzales', known for his incredible speed.
It can be, as the Speedy Gonzales character has been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes. Caution is advised in its use.
A proper noun, originally a Spanish surname.
Gonzales: in British English it is pronounced /ɡɒnˈzɑːlɛs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡɑnˈzɑlɛs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “do a (speedy) gonzales”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine Speedy Gonzales running away in a cloud of dust. If you 'do a gonzales', you vanish just as fast.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPEED IS A CHARACTERISTIC OF A SPECIFIC PERSON (metonymy).
Practice
Quiz
What does the informal phrase 'do a gonzales' mean?