How Do You Spell BUGBEAR?

Pronunciation: [bˈʌɡbe͡ə] (IPA)

The term "bugbear" is often misspelled as "budgber" or "bugber" due to confusion with the similar word "bugger". However, the correct spelling is "buhg-behr". The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, as in "hug", followed by a hard "g" sound, and the second syllable has a long "e" sound and a soft "r" sound. A bugbear is a cause of fear or anxiety, often overblown or irrational, and is a common motif in folklore and literature.

BUGBEAR Meaning and Definition

1. A bugbear is an archaic word that is used to denote a source of ongoing concern or annoyance. It refers to a perceived problem, fear, or obstacle that often causes distress or anxiety. The term "bugbear" is derived from two different words: "bug," which refers to an insect or small creature, and "bear," which denotes a large and powerful animal. When combined, they create an image of something small and seemingly insignificant that can be disproportionately bothersome, like a tiny bug that continuously irritates a person.

   The concept of a bugbear is often associated with irrational fears or exaggerated worries. It can be a person's personal bugbear, such as an everyday nuisance or a particular habit that is greatly disliked. Additionally, bugbears can also be societal concerns like prejudice, injustice, or corruption that become the collective bugbear of a nation or community.

   The term "bugbear" is often used metaphorically to describe a persistent problem or issue that is difficult to resolve. It emphasizes the idea that something seemingly trivial can have a significant impact on one's well-being, causing distress or discomfort. By labeling certain issues as bugbears, individuals can express their frustration or dissatisfaction with these ongoing annoyances, highlighting their ability to disrupt daily life or hinder progress.

2. • Anything that scares or frightens, real or imaginary.

   • To alarm or scare by any means.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for BUGBEAR

• bugrer
• buggar
• bugar
• bugular
• vugbear
• nugbear
• hugbear
• gugbear
• bygbear
• bhgbear
• bjgbear
• bigbear
• b8gbear
• b7gbear
• bufbear
• buggbear
• bugerar
• bugbier
• Bugbean

Etymology of BUGBEAR

The word "bugbear" originated in the early 16th century, combining the two words "bug" and "bear". "Bug" was a term used to refer to an evil spirit or phantom, while "bear" meant to carry or bring. The concept of a bugbear was initially used in folktales to denote a fearsome imaginary creature, often employed to frighten children and keep them in line. Over time, the term "bugbear" broadened its meaning to include any source of fear, anxiety, or annoyance.

Similar spelling words for BUGBEAR

• bus fare,
• buspar,
• busbar.

Plural form of BUGBEAR is BUGBEARS