boogeyman

noun

boo·​gey·​man ˈbu̇-gē-ˌman How to pronounce boogeyman (audio)
ˈbü-
variants or less commonly boogerman
ˈbu̇-gər- How to pronounce boogeyman (audio)
ˈbü-
: bogeyman

Examples of boogeyman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yes, the same Anthropic that was once seen as a boogeyman. — Jeff Marks, CNBC, 2 June 2026 The second apron became the boogeyman to front offices. — Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 7 June 2026 Only the boogeyman version is portrayed. — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026 Top Dem legal boogeymen tee up in red state's redistricting crusade. — FOXNews.com, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for boogeyman

Word History

Etymology

by alteration

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of boogeyman was in 1880

Rhymes for boogeyman

See All Rhymes for boogeyman

Browse Nearby Words

booger dance
boogeyman
boogie
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Boogeyman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boogeyman. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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