The etymology of "stooge" is uncertain, but there are several theories:
From the Dutch "stoote": A derogatory term for a fool or a tool.
From the Middle English "stugge": Meaning "stubborn" or "sullen."
From the Italian "stozzo": Meaning "a blockhead" or "a simpleton."
Meaning and Origin of "Stooge":
Stooge (noun):
A person used as a decoy, a dupe, or an unwitting pawn.
A person who is easily tricked or manipulated.
A comedian who performs as the fall guy or butt of jokes in a comedy act.
Origin:
The term "stooge" was originally used to describe people who were hired to pretend to be drunk or rowdy in order to provoke laughter or draw attention to a performance or event.
These "stooges" were often paid to act in a foolish or ridiculous manner, and the term eventually came to be applied to anyone who is used as a comic prop or a dupe.
In the early 20th century, the term "stooge" became associated with the comedy team of The Three Stooges, who used slapstick comedy and physical humor to entertain audiences.