A small round fruit that grows on bushes, usually sour and green or purple, used in cooking and desserts; can also mean an unwanted third person in a romantic situation.
From Dutch 'kruisbes' or German 'Stachselbeere,' the name traveled through European languages. The 'goose' part is mysterious—it might relate to Dutch 'kruis' (cross) being misheard, or it might be because geese and gooseberries both have a sour reputation.
Being a 'third wheel' or unwanted person is called 'playing gooseberry' in British English—probably because gooseberries are tart and sour, so you're the sour note ruining a sweet romantic moment!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.