Hoon

/huːn/ noun

Definition

An Australian or New Zealand slang term for someone who drives recklessly and dangerously, usually to show off.

Etymology

Australian slang of uncertain origin, possibly from 'hoon' as an abbreviation of 'hooligan' or related to the sound of a car engine. The term became widespread in Australia in the 1980s-1990s and is now commonly used in legal contexts for dangerous driving offenses.

Kelly Says

Australia actually created laws specifically called 'anti-hoon laws' that let police impound cars on the spot if drivers are caught speeding or driving dangerously—the Aussies took their car culture seriously enough to create a whole legal category around it!

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