Meaning & use

bugbear

noun·Advanced

Last updated

A source of persistent fear, annoyance, or irritation; a recurring problem that causes distress.

See it in a sentence

Slow internet service is a constant bugbear for remote workers.

Public speaking has always been his biggest bugbear.

A note on using this word

"Bugbear" originally referred to a legendary goblin-like creature invented to frighten children, before evolving into its modern sense of a persistent worry or annoyance.

Words with a similar meaning

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