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Bozo: meaning, definitions and examples

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bozo

 

[ ˈboʊzoʊ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

slang usage

The term 'bozo' is a slang expression often used to refer to a foolish or incompetent person. It carries a dismissive tone, suggesting that the individual is not to be taken seriously and often exhibits clumsy or silly behavior. Historically, it may have originated in the early 20th century and has been popularized through various forms of entertainment, including cartoons and movies. 'Bozo' can also be associated with a lack of common sense.

Synonyms

clown, fool, idiot, simpleton

Examples of usage

  • Don't be such a bozo and check your emails before sending.
  • He acted like a total bozo at the party last night.
  • Only a bozo would forget their own birthday.

Translations

Translations of the word "bozo" in other languages:

🇵🇹 palhaço

🇮🇳 बेवकूफ

🇩🇪 Trottel

🇮🇩 bodoh

🇺🇦 дурень

🇵🇱 głupek

🇯🇵 バカ

🇫🇷 idiot

🇪🇸 idiota

🇹🇷 salak

🇰🇷 바보

🇸🇦 أحمق

🇨🇿 hlupák

🇸🇰 hlupák

🇨🇳 傻瓜

🇸🇮 neumen

🇮🇸 fáviti

🇰🇿 надан

🇬🇪 ბუზღუნა

🇦🇿 axmaq

🇲🇽 idiota

Etymology

The word 'bozo' first appeared in the early 20th century, originating from the American English slang. It is believed to derive from the Spanish word 'bozo,' which means a foolish or stupid person. The term gained popularity in the 1940s with the introduction of 'Bozo the Clown,' a character created by Alan W. Livingston for children's entertainment. Bozo the Clown was associated with silliness and slapstick humor, further cementing the term 'bozo' as a descriptor for someone lacking common sense or acting foolishly. Over time, the usage of the word expanded beyond its original context, becoming a more generalized insult for anyone perceived as inept or goofy.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,047, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.