gaggle

A gaggle is a collective noun specifically used to describe a group of geese. The term originates from Old English and has been in use since at least the 14th century. Unlike many collective nouns, which are often obscure or humorous, "gaggle" is widely recognized and commonly used in everyday language.

Geese are waterfowl belonging to the genus *Anser* or *Branta*, known for their distinctive honking calls and V-shaped flight formations. A gaggle typically refers to a group of geese on land, particularly when they are feeding or resting. When geese are in flight, the collective term is a "flock," and when they are swimming, they are called a "scoot."

The use of "gaggle" reflects the social nature of geese, which are highly gregarious birds. They often travel and forage in groups, relying on collective behavior for protection and efficiency. The term has also been adopted in popular culture, appearing in literature, media, and even as a playful reference in everyday conversation.

While "gaggle" is primarily associated with geese, some sources suggest it may have been used more broadly in the past to describe groups of other birds, though this is no longer standard usage. The term remains a simple yet evocative way to describe the behavior and social structure of geese in their natural environment.