play gooseberry

Verb

play gooseberry (third-person singular simple present plays gooseberry, present participle playing gooseberry, simple past and past participle played gooseberry)

1. (UK, dated, slang) To be an unwanted third party accompanying two lovers, to serve as a chaperon.
   • "Well, new experiences are broadening. Come along, and you'll be able to sympathize with all poor souls who have to play gooseberry often.1915, Lucy Maud Montgomery, “In the Park”, in Anne of the Island
   • What do you do at night in cars? — I have never been in cars. Never in a car at night? — Only with my sister's young man. Do you play gooseberry? — No. My sister's young man often takes me and the children for a little drive.1930 April 11, The Brunswick and Coburg Gazette, Moonee Ponds, Vic, page 1, column 4

   Synonyms:

   do gooseberry