Booby: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆ
booby
[ หbuหbi ]
informal slang
The term 'booby' is often used as a slang term for a fool or someone who lacks common sense. This usage can be somewhat derogatory and is typically lighthearted. In a different context, 'booby' also refers to several species of seabirds known for their webbed feet and distinctive diving behaviors. These birds are generally found in tropical or subtropical regions. The term can also refer to the breast, especially in a playful or crude manner.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Donโt be such a booby about it.
- The booby dove into the water to catch a fish.
- He made a booby of himself at the party.
- She laughed at his booby behavior.
- The booby was spotted on the rocky shore.
bird species
In ornithology, 'booby' refers to a group of seabirds belonging to the genus Sula. These birds are known for their distinctive feet, which are adapted for diving and swimming. They are typically characterized by their bright plumage, large wings, and elongated bodies. Boobies are excellent divers and are often seen plunging into the ocean to catch fish. There are different species of boobies, including the blue-footed booby, which is famous for its striking blue feet.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The blue-footed booby is a popular attraction in the Galรกpagos.
- Researchers studied the mating habits of the red-footed booby.
- An impressive sight is the booby diving for fish.
Translations
Translations of the word "booby" in other languages:
๐ต๐น maminha
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฌเฅเคฌเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Brust
๐ฎ๐ฉ payudara
๐บ๐ฆ ะณััะดะธ
๐ต๐ฑ piersi
๐ฏ๐ต ่ธ
๐ซ๐ท seins
๐ช๐ธ senos
๐น๐ท gรถฤรผs
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ฐ์ด
๐ธ๐ฆ ุซุฏู
๐จ๐ฟ prsa
๐ธ๐ฐ prsnรญk
๐จ๐ณ ่ธ้จ
๐ธ๐ฎ prsi
๐ฎ๐ธ brjรณst
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัาฏั ะฑะตะทั
๐ฌ๐ช แฌแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ dรถล
๐ฒ๐ฝ senos
Etymology
The word 'booby' has a fascinating etymology that traces back to the early 17th century. Derived from the Spanish word 'bobo', which means 'fool', 'booby' originally referred to a simpleton and was often used in a lighthearted or humorous context. The Spanish term 'bobo' itself is believed to have been influenced by the Latin word 'balbus', which means 'stuttering' or 'dull'. The word began to shift in meaning when it was applied to the seabirds. These birds were named 'boobies' due to their perceived clumsiness and behavior that seemed foolish compared to other birds. The negative connotation of the term as a descriptor for a foolish person likely played a role in its transfer to the context of both people and birds. Over time, 'booby' has maintained both usages in English, reflecting its dual meanings in contemporary language.