rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryboobyTropical seabird
noun

booby

A tropical seabird with long wings and a pointed bill.

The booby dives toward the sea with its long wings swept back.

Etymology
boobySpanishfool

Spanish bobo means fool. The bird’s name reflects the judgment of sailors who found these seabirds unusually tame or easy to catch, rather than a scientific description of intelligence.

More examples

  • Several boobies nested on the island.
  • A blue-footed booby stood beside its chick.
  • The guide identified the booby's pointed bill.

Forms

booby · boobies