Booby
/ˈbuː.bi/noun
A term for a foolish or silly person, often used in a derogatory context.
Did you know?The term 'booby' comes from the Spanish word 'bobo', meaning 'stupid' or 'foolish', reflecting a long history of mocking those who are perceived as simple-minded.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰoḱ-
“To shout or to cry out, suggesting a lack of understanding.”
Latin
Latin
bōbus
“A cow; a term for something slow or dull-witted.”
Old Spanish
Old Spanish
bobo
“Fool, simpleton, or one who lacks intelligence.”
17th Century
English
booby
“A foolish person; derived from the Spanish term.”
Modern English
English
booby
“Used derogatorily for someone perceived as foolish.”