Gooden is an archaic or dialectal English verb with limited modern usage. It primarily means to make something good, improve, or perfect it.
Primary Meanings
The term functions transitively to enhance or better an object, such as improving quality or condition. Intransitively, it describes becoming good or prospering, often in UK dialects referring to growth or thriving. A niche dialectal sense involves wandering town-to-town collecting small gifts or alms around Christmas, tied to St. Thomas's Day traditions.
Etymology
It derives from "good" plus the suffix "-en," echoing Middle English goden or Old English gōdian for making better or enriching. Alternative roots link to customs like "goodening" from "goody" or even older rituals possibly tied to Odin.
Other Contexts
Informally, "Gooden" appears as Idaho slang for "good one" or "good people." It also serves as a surname for figures like baseball player Dwight Gooden, though unrelated to the verb.
