noun
BEM
BEM (noun) means In science fiction, a stock grotesque alien creature that threatens the heroes. Example: “The pulp cover showed a classic bem menacing the heroine.”
noun
1
In science fiction, a stock grotesque alien creature that threatens the heroes.
"This is my first time in active BEM service. They've never let me near the Bugs before."
— Lawrence Miles, Alien Bodies (1997)
"The pulp cover showed a classic bem menacing the heroine."
"Incidentally, Mr. Bergey, the BEM's on your latest smear have extremely jovial expressions on their pans to be as tough a bunch of eggs as Friend made them out."
— Parmer Farrell, The Reader Speaks (1940)
How to use BEM
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSci-fi slang for a cheesy, menacing alien monster, especially the "bug-eyed" kind from old pulp covers.
When to use it
Niche fandom slang, not everyday vocabulary.
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Word forms
- Plural
- BEMs
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The pulp cover showed a classic _____ menacing the heroine.
Etymology
An acronym from "bug-eyed monster," a term coined by science-fiction fans to mock cliché alien villains.
Frequently asked questions
What does “BEM” mean?
The word “BEM” means in science fiction, a stock grotesque alien creature that threatens the heroes. In plain terms, sci-fi slang for a cheesy, menacing alien monster, especially the "bug-eyed" kind from old pulp covers.
How do you use “BEM” in a sentence?
Here is “BEM” used in a sentence: “The pulp cover showed a classic bem menacing the heroine.”
What part of speech is “BEM”?
“BEM” is a noun.
What is the meaning of BEM?
"BEM" (noun) means in science fiction, a stock grotesque alien creature that threatens the heroes.
