bug-bear

Noun

bugbear (plural bugbears)

1. An ongoing problem; a recurring obstacle or adversity.
   • Stone ballast is now used throughout the main line, and has the additional advantage of eliminating the previous bugbear of dust.1940 November, O. S. M. Raw, “The Rhodesia Railways—I”, in Railway Magazine, page 592

   Synonyms:

   pet peeve

2. A source of dread; resentment; or irritation.
   • What has this Bugbear Death to frighten Man,
     If Souls can die, as well as Bodies can?1709, John Dryden, "Lucretius: A Poem against the Fear of Death" (lines 1-2), published in a pamphlet of the same name with an Ode in Memory of Mrs. Ann Killebrew

   Synonyms:

   anathema, antipathy, bête noire

3. A generic creature, often described as a large goblin, meant to inspire fear in children.
   • Ha, ha: alas poore wretch: a poore Chipochia, haſt not ſlept to night? would he not (a naughty man) let it ſleepe: a bug-beare take him.c. 1602 (date written), William Shakespeare, “The Tragedie of Troylus and Cressida”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and...

   Synonyms:

   bogeyman, bogey, bug-a-boo, bugaboo

See all 4 meanings of bugbear