# Bobo

/ˈboʊboʊ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bobo
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a person who is successful and wealthy but also likes things that are artistic or natural. It describes people who have expensive tastes but want to look like they have a simple, cool lifestyle.

For teachers: a member of a social class that combines the wealth and professional success of the bourgeoisie with the creative and countercultural values of bohemians. A portmanteau of 'bourgeois' and 'bohemian', typically used to describe affluent urbanites with liberal, eco-conscious, or artistic sensibilities.

## Examples

- The neighborhood is full of bobos buying organic coffee.
- The area transformed from a working-class district into a bobo paradise filled with art galleries and expensive vegan bistros.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a collective noun or a modifier for neighborhoods and lifestyles; can carry a slightly mocking or critical tone.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.