English Explanatory Dictionary

Buggins's turn

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A humorous, disparaging term for the appointment of a person by rotation or promotion, on the basis of length of service (it being that person's "turn") rather than merit or level of qualification.

Word forms

Buggins's turn

Etymology

Earliest recorded use is by Admiral Fisher, later First Sea Lord, in a 1901 letter. 'Buggins' is a humorous invented surname, suggestive of a man of mediocre ability.

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