plural buggers
informal
1
: an annoying or difficult but usually small thing
I put down my keys, and now I can't find the buggers.
(Brit) The exam was a bugger. [=the exam was difficult]
2
chiefly British
a
offensive
: a person (especially a man) who is strongly disliked
I can't stand that stupid bugger.
b
: an annoying or playful person or animal
Note: In this sense, bugger is an impolite word that is often used in a loving or friendly way.
buggers; buggered; buggering
British
1
offensive
: to have anal sex with (someone)
2
informal + impolite
—used as an interjection to express strong anger, surprise, etc.
Bugger [=damn] this machine!
Bugger it/me!
Well, I'll be buggered. [=damned] I can't believe you did it!
Cite this Entry
“Bugger.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/bugger. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
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