noun
boner
BOH-nuh
noun
1
An embarrassing mistake or blunder.
"Forgetting the client's name was a real boner."
2
Vulgar slang for an erect penis.
"The joke made the whole room laugh nervously."
How to Use Boner
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither an awkward mistake, or crude slang for an erection — context makes clear which.
When to use it
The sexual sense is vulgar slang; the "blunder" sense is dated but not offensive.
Word Forms
boners plural, Boners plural
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Forgetting the client's name was a real _____.
Etymology
Formed from "bone" plus the agent suffix "-er."