bogeyman
Bogeyman (noun) means an imaginary monster used to frighten children into good behavior. Example: “Parents warned that the bogeyman would come if they didn't go to sleep.”
How to use bogeyman
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA scary made-up figure used to frighten children, or more broadly, an exaggerated threat used to scare people.
Word forms
bogeymen plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Parents warned that the _____ would come if they didn't go to sleep.
Etymology
From bogey plus the suffix -man.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for bogeyman
See all rhymes for bogeyman →Frequently asked questions
What does “bogeyman” mean?
The word “bogeyman” means an imaginary monster used to frighten children into good behavior. In plain terms, a scary made-up figure used to frighten children, or more broadly, an exaggerated threat used to scare people.
How do you pronounce “bogeyman”?
“Bogeyman” is pronounced BOH-gih-man (/ˈboʊ.ɡiˌmæn/ in IPA).
How do you use “bogeyman” in a sentence?
Here is “bogeyman” used in a sentence: “Parents warned that the bogeyman would come if they didn't go to sleep.”
What part of speech is “bogeyman”?
“Bogeyman” is a noun.
How many meanings does “bogeyman” have?
“Bogeyman” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an imaginary monster used to frighten children into good behavior.