bugbear

Definitions

1nounA persistent problem or source of annoyance.

Traffic congestion is a major bugbear for city residents.

For many students, math can be a real bugbear.

The company's outdated software has been a bugbear for employees.

Word Origin

Language

Middle English

Originally meant

an imaginary creature used to frighten children

Background

The term 'bugbear' originally referred to a mythical creature, often depicted as a bear, used to scare children into good behavior. Over time, it evolved to mean any source of fear or annoyance.

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