Hooliganism

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Hooliganism

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

HOO-lih-gun-iz-um  /ˈhuːlɪɡənɪz(ə)m/

Definition

Violent, disruptive, or antisocial behaviour by groups of rowdy individuals, especially in the context of public disorder, vandalism, or football-related violence; the behaviour or attitudes characteristic of hooligans.

Plain meaning

Hooliganism means rowdy, violent, or destructive behaviour in public — particularly the kind associated with football crowds, gangs of youths, or groups intent on causing trouble and property damage. A hooligan is someone who behaves this way.

Register

Informal to journalistic. Hooliganism is used in newspapers, police reports, political speeches, and academic sociology of deviance. It carries clear negative connotations. The related adjective is hooligan (used attributively: hooligan behaviour).