baboonery

noun

ba·​boon·​ery

plural -es

: conduct, activity, or attitudes that are brutish, degrading, or grotesquely humorous

never … in the history of architecture has taste … descended to similar baboonery

—Architect & Building News

Word History

Etymology

Middle English babwinrie, from babewin + -rie -ry

First Known Use

1731, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dicitonary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now