Boor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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boor

[bʊər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

rude person

A boor is a rude, unrefined, or ill-mannered person. Boors often lack social graces and can be insensitive to the feelings of others. They may behave in a crude or vulgar manner, lacking in sophistication or tact.

Synonyms

barbarian, ruffian, uncouth person.

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Word Description / Examples
boor

Use the word 'boor' to describe someone who is rude and lacks manners, often in social situations. This word has a negative connotation.

  • He was such a boor at the dinner party, talking over everyone and dismissing their opinions.
  • Don't be a boor; apologize for interrupting her.
ruffian

A 'ruffian' is someone who is rough and violent, often engaged in criminal activities. This term is used to highlight the dangerous aspects of a person's behavior.

  • The police arrested a group of ruffians who were causing trouble in the neighborhood.
  • He looked like a ruffian, but he was actually quite kind once you got to know him.
barbarian

The word 'barbarian' is generally used to describe someone who is uncivilized and acts in a primitive way. This term is often used metaphorically and can have historical connotations.

  • They behaved like barbarians, destroying everything in their path.
  • In ancient times, the Romans referred to non-Romans as barbarians.
uncouth person

This phrase describes someone who lacks good manners and refinement, often appearing crude and unpolished. It generally has a negative connotation.

  • It's hard to believe she married such an uncouth person; he has no sense of decorum.
  • He was seen as an uncouth person because he never bothered to learn basic social etiquette.

Examples of usage

  • He was such a boor at the party, making offensive jokes and insulting everyone.
  • Don't invite him to the event, he's just a boor who will embarrass us all.
  • She couldn't stand his boorish behavior and decided to leave the conversation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'boor'

The word 'boor' originated from Middle Dutch 'boer' which means farmer or peasant. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to someone who is uncultured or ill-mannered. The term has been used in English since the 16th century to describe a person lacking in social graces.


See also: boorish.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,603 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.