Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

bogeyman

noun

/ˈboʊ.ɡiˌmæn/

Definition

A mythical creature used to frighten children.

Examples

Parents often tell their kids to behave well, or the bogeyman might get them.
He always checked the closet before sleeping, fearing the bogeyman would jump out.

Meaning

The term ‘bogeyman’ refers to an imaginary monster or ghost that parents often mention to scare children into behaving. It is not a real entity but rather a figure of folklore.