SportsJuly 31, 2026

muppetry

MUP-uh-tree

Definition

Foolish, incompetent, or ridiculous behavior, often used to describe someone acting in a way that is absurd or embarrassing.

Etymology

Derived from the British English slang 'muppet,' a term referring to a foolish or inept person, popularized by the characters from The Muppet Show, with the suffix '-ery' added to denote a state of behavior.

In the news

The word is used to describe the cringe-inducing and absurd behavior of a sports official who performed for cameras in a way that appeared subservient and silly. It highlights the author's disdain for the official's lack of dignity.

Ominous shadow of Donald Trump already looming over 2028 LA Olympics

Read the full article ↗

Irish Examiner

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.