boondoggle etymology

Origin and Etymology of "Boondoggle"

The term "boondoggle" is believed to have originated in the early 1900s in the United States. Its exact etymology is unclear, but several theories have been proposed:

  • From "bundle of nonsense": It may have originated as a term for a small, useless object, similar to a bundle of nonsense.

  • From "Brooklyn Navy Shipyard": Some sources claim that the term was first used by workers at the Brooklyn Navy Shipyard during World War I to describe small, worthless items they made to keep busy.

  • From "bandage": Another theory suggests that it derived from the word "bandage," as soldiers in the Civil War and World War I often made small, useless items with bandages as a hobby.

Meaning of "Boondoggle"

A boondoggle refers to:

  • A worthless object: A small, useless or impractical item, especially one made as a hobby or pastime.

  • A wasteful activity: A project or activity that is unnecessary, unproductive, or a waste of time and resources.

  • A deception: Something that is presented as having value or importance but is actually trivial or fraudulent.

Example Sentences:

  • "He spent hours making boondoggles out of scraps of wood."
  • "The government's latest spending bill is a complete boondoggle."
  • "Don't be fooled by his smooth talk, it's just a boondoggle."

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