# bugbear

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈbʌɡ.bɛə(ɹ)/ · frequency rank #76,605

## Definitions
1. An ongoing problem; a recurring obstacle or adversity.
2. A source of dread; resentment; or irritation.
3. A generic creature, often described as a large goblin, meant to inspire fear in children.

## Etymology
From obsolete meaning of bug (“something terrifying”) + bear. See Middle English bugge, modern bogey.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/bugbear