babooism
|ba-boo-ism|
🇺🇸
/bəˈbuːɪzəm/
🇬🇧
/bəˈbuːɪz(ə)m/
pedantic, officious clerkly manner
Etymology
'babooism' originates from English, formed by adding the suffix '-ism' to 'baboo', where 'baboo' ultimately derives from Hindi/Bengali 'babu' meaning 'father' or an honorific 'sir'.
'baboo' was borrowed into English in the early 19th century from Hindi/Bengali 'babu' as a term for an educated Indian or clerk; in Victorian and colonial usage 'baboo' (also spelled 'baboo') produced the derivative 'babooism' to denote characteristics or practices associated with such figures.
Initially, 'babu' primarily meant an honorific like 'father' or 'sir'; in English it became associated with Indian clerks/officials, and 'babooism' developed to describe the stereotyped mannerisms or officious/pedantic behavior attributed to them.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the manner, behavior, or attitudes associated with a 'baboo' (historically an Indian clerk or minor official); often implies pedantry, officiousness, or overly formal courtesy.
His babooism showed in his pedantic corrections and excessive attention to ceremonial detail.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/23 23:38