# boomers

/ˈbumɝz/ (US) · /bˈuːməz/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. the generation

noun · CEFR B2

people born between 1946 and 1964, during a time when many babies were born.

For teachers: members of the baby boom generation, specifically those born in the post-WWII period between 1946 and 1964.

- Many boomers are now reaching retirement age and planning their next steps.
- Economists are closely monitoring how boomers manage their retirement savings, as their spending habits significantly influence the national economy.

### 2. older people/attitudes

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal · Humorous · Slang

a word used by younger people to describe older people who they think have old-fashioned ideas.

For teachers: a term used colloquially by younger generations to dismiss or categorise older individuals perceived as out of touch.

- The teenagers rolled their eyes and joked about boomers not understanding social media.
- The phrase 'OK boomer' became a viral shorthand for younger generations to dismiss the perceived condescension of their elders.

Teaching tip: This sense can be seen as dismissive or slightly rude depending on the context; students should use it carefully in professional settings.

### 3. Australian basketball team

noun · CEFR C1 · British English

the name for the Australian men's national basketball team.

For teachers: the official nickname for the Australian men's national basketball representative team.

- The Boomers played a great game against the USA in the Olympics.
- The Boomers secured a historic bronze medal, marking a significant milestone for Australian basketball on the international stage.

Usage: Usually capitalized as 'the Boomers'.

Teaching tip: This is a specific cultural reference in Australia; 'boomer' is also a slang term for a large male kangaroo.

## Examples

- Many boomers remember life before the internet.
- The company hired several boomers to mentor the younger staff members during the transition.
- Sociologists often contrast the political views of boomers with those of millennials, highlighting a significant shift in cultural values over the last few decades.

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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.