gorillagram: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very low (historical/obsolete term)Informal, humorous, dated
Quick answer
What does “gorillagram” mean?
A novelty greeting service where a person dressed in a gorilla costume delivers a humorous message or performance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A novelty greeting service where a person dressed in a gorilla costume delivers a humorous message or performance.
By extension, any similarly themed, comedic surprise greeting or stunt involving a costume, often to embarrass or entertain someone on a special occasion. Historically refers to a specific 1970s-1990s fad.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The service and term were known in both regions but were more culturally prominent in the UK, often referenced in 1980s/90s British media. In the US, 'singing telegram' was a more common generic term.
Connotations
Both: tacky, light-hearted, retro humour. UK: strong association with 1980s office parties and hen/stag nights.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary use in both dialects, surviving mainly in nostalgic or historical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “gorillagram” in a Sentence
[Someone] sent (someone) a gorillagram.A gorillagram was delivered to [someone].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gorillagram” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They decided to gorillagram the boss for his leaving do.
- I've been gorillagrammed! It was utterly ridiculous.
American English
- As a joke, they gorillagrammed the guest of honor.
- He threatened to gorillagram his brother at work.
adverb
British English
- [Not standard]
American English
- [Not standard]
adjective
British English
- It was a real gorillagram moment, chaotic and funny.
- He runs a gorillagram-style business for parties.
American English
- The party had a gorillagram vibe with all the silly surprises.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Historically used for humorous office farewells or morale events. Now considered unprofessional.
Academic
Only in cultural studies discussing 20th-century fads or the commodification of humour.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Used by older generations recalling past events. 'They sent me a gorillagram for my 30th!'
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gorillagram”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gorillagram”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gorillagram”
- Spelling: 'gorillagr*m', 'gorilagram'. Using it as a current, common term.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it was a registered trademark that entered general usage, particularly in the UK, to describe a specific type of novelty greeting service popular in the late 20th century.
While some niche novelty gift companies may offer similar services, the specific branded 'Gorillagram' and its widespread popularity are historical. The term itself is rarely used for contemporary services.
A singing telegram typically involves a singer delivering a customised song. A gorillagram specifically involves a performer in a gorilla costume, focusing more on physical comedy and surprise rather than singing.
Dictionaries record the lexicon of a language, including words that were significant in the past. Understanding terms like 'gorillagram' helps with reading historical texts, understanding cultural references, and tracing the evolution of language and social customs.
A novelty greeting service where a person dressed in a gorilla costume delivers a humorous message or performance.
Gorillagram is usually informal, humorous, dated in register.
Gorillagram: in British English it is pronounced /ɡəˈrɪləˌɡræm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡəˈrɪləˌɡræm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[not applicable for this specific term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a GORILLA with a teleGRAM, pounding its chest to deliver a birthday message.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANNOUNCEMENT IS A PERFORMANCE; HUMOUR IS A COSTUME.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate description of a 'gorillagram' in its historical context?