Bogey

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /bəʊɡi/

Definitions

1. A wheeled vehicle used to carry goods or materials ; a golf score that is one stroke higher than par for a hole ; a frightening or imaginary monster often used to scare children ; a hidden obstacle or danger, especially in swampy ground
2. A chassis or framework with wheels that supports a load or train car ; the term for taking one more stroke than expected on a golf hole ; a mythical spectral figure that causes fear or unease ; a concealed hazard or bog area that impedes progress
3. A platform on wheels designed to bear heavy weight such as in trains ; a golfing term for a score exceeding par by one stroke ; a legendary frightening entity often mentioned in stories ; a concealed impediment or marshy spot that can trap or block movement

Etymology: The origin of this word is uncertain. It is probably related to Middle English "bugge", a frightening specter or scarecrow, which also gave us "bug". Some suggest a link to Welsh "bwg", meaning ghost or hobgoblin, while others trace it to a Proto-Germanic root meaning "swollen up, thick", as if early bogeys were hulking, shapeless figures. Old English "pūca", a mischievous goblin, is a related figure, though not a confirmed ancestor. The creature sense has a separate offshoot in golf. A bogey is one stroke over par, and the term comes from the idea of the devil as an imaginary player who could always reach the par score. The word's sense of a bandit is a later conflation, popularized by the 1986 film Top Gun, and many dictionaries consider it improper.

Synonyms: goblin, spook, phantom, specter, boogeyman

Antonyms: hero, idol, saint, champion, figurehead