What is the meaning of the word "baboo"?
"Baboo" is a historical term that reflects the complex social and cultural dynamics of the British colonial period in India, particularly in relation to issues of class, education, and governance.
Definitions:
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Derived from the Bengali word 'babu', which is a term of respect or address used for a gentleman or a person of higher social status.
NOUN
- Many baboos embraced Western education and values in their pursuit of upward mobility within the colonial hierarchy.
- Many baboos embraced Western education and values in their pursuit of upward mobility within the colonial hierarchy.
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Derogatory term that was used during the colonial period in India to refer to a native Indian person who was educated and held a clerical or administrative position in the British colonial government or other institution. NOUN
- The British officials dismissed the concerns of the local baboos, considering them to be mere clerks without real authority.
- The British officials dismissed the concerns of the local baboos, considering them to be mere clerks without real authority.
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Often used, during the British colonial period in India, to refer to Indian clerks, bureaucrats, or administrators who worked for the British colonial government or other institutions. NOUN
- The British colonial administration relied heavily on native baboos to manage the day-to-day affairs of the government bureaucracy.
- The British colonial administration relied heavily on native baboos to manage the day-to-day affairs of the government bureaucracy.