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Definition of baboon

baboon

/bæˈbuːn/
ba · boon
Plural:baboons
•
Adjective:baboonish
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baboon Lexical Profile

baboon Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A large Old World monkey of the genus Papio, native to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, characterized by a long, dog-like muzzle, prominent canine teeth, and a complex social hierarchy.

Example

"The wildlife documentary followed a troop of baboons as they foraged for roots and insects across the African savanna."

2

A person regarded as stupid, brutish, or completely lacking in manners (used informally as an insult).

Example

"The frustrated coach yelled at the players, calling them a bunch of baboons for making such foolish mistakes on the field."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for baboon

• Nearby Words

babiana
babirusa
babka
baboon
baboonish
babsko praskalo
babushka

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'babewyn', borrowed from Old French 'babouin', possibly derived from 'baboue' meaning 'grimace' or 'muzzle'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Baboon. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/baboon
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