noun

bozo

BOH-zoh

Bozo (noun) means an informal, mildly insulting term for a foolish or ridiculous person. Example: “Only a bozo would leave the car keys in the ignition overnight.”

noun

An informal, mildly insulting term for a foolish or ridiculous person.

"Only a bozo would leave the car keys in the ignition overnight."

How to use bozo

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA silly or incompetent person, used as a mild insult.

When to use it

Informal and somewhat dated; mostly used jokingly or in mock exasperation.

Word forms

bozos plural, Bozos plural, Bozo plural

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Only a _____ would leave the car keys in the ignition overnight.

Etymology

First recorded in early 20th-century American English; its exact origin is uncertain, though it predates the clown character "Bozo."

· First attested 1900

Class of 1900 bozo joined the language around 1900.

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Frequently asked questions

What does “bozo” mean?

The word “bozo” means an informal, mildly insulting term for a foolish or ridiculous person. In plain terms, a silly or incompetent person, used as a mild insult.

How do you pronounce “bozo”?

“Bozo” is pronounced BOH-zoh (/ˈboʊ.zoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “bozo” in a sentence?

Here is “bozo” used in a sentence: “Only a bozo would leave the car keys in the ignition overnight.”

What part of speech is “bozo”?

“Bozo” is a noun.

Where does the word “bozo” come from?

The word “bozo” dates back to around 1900. First recorded in early 20th-century American English; its exact origin is uncertain, though it predates the clown character "Bozo.".