English

Noun

boffin ‎(plural boffins)

1. (Britain, Australia, informal) A scientist or engineer, especially one engaged in technological or military research.
   • 1942 February 2, Tizard, Sir Henry, “Parliamentary and Scientific Committee. Luncheon.”, in Journal of the Institute of Petroleum, volume 28, number 219, page 58:

     In fact, a fighting friend of mine said that he could hardly walk in any direction in this war without tumbling over a scientist who had got in the way. In the Royal Air Force, where the concentration of scientists is perhaps greatest, they have a pet name for them. They call them " Boffins." Why, I do not know. I said to a young friend of mine in the Air Force, " Why do you call scientists ' Boffins ' ?" He said, " I don't know. What else would you call them ? "

Synonyms

• egghead

Derived terms

• astro-boffin
• boffinry

See also

• backroom boys
• mad scientist

Translations