Pronunciation: [ɡˈɒliz] (IPA) 
The word "gollies" is commonly misspelled as "gollies" or "gallies." The correct spelling is actually "golliwogs," which is derived from a character in children's books from the late 19th century. The word is pronounced as /ˈɡɒliwɒɡ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This word has been contentious due to racist connotations associated with the character it is derived from, and its use is often discouraged in modern literature and media.
Gollies is a plural noun that refers to small, usually metal or plastic, figurines or toys portraying a caricatured African American or Black person. The term primarily originated in Britain during the 19th and 20th centuries, commonly used as a colloquial term to describe these types of collectible objects.
The term "gollies" is considered derogatory and offensive, as it perpetuates racial stereotypes and reflects racially insensitive historical practices. These figurines often depict exaggerated physical features, including dark skin, oversized lips, and bulging eyes, reinforcing harmful stereotypes that have been used to marginalize and discriminate against Black individuals.
However, it is important to note that in contemporary usage, the term "gollies" has become widely recognized as offensive, and these figurines are now viewed as deeply inappropriate and racially insensitive. They are commonly understood to be artifacts of a racially discriminatory past, and efforts are being made to remove or contextualize them in recognition of a more inclusive and diverse society.
Overall, the use of the term "gollies" should be approached with caution and sensitivity due to its derogatory nature and perpetuation of harmful racial stereotypes. It is crucial to promote tolerance, diversity, and inclusiveness while actively rejecting and challenging any form of discrimination or racially offensive practices.
The word "gollies" is derived from the term "gollywogs", which first appeared in the late 19th century. "Gollywogs" referred to a fictional children's character with dark skin, unkempt hair, and exaggerated features, often depicted as a ragdoll. The word "gollywog" itself is believed to be a parody or alteration of "Golliwog", a character in an 1895 children's book by British author Florence Kate Upton, titled "The Adventures of Two Dutch Dolls and a Golliwogg".
The Golliwogg character gained popularity in literature and as a contemporary children's toy, becoming widely known in the English-speaking world.
