The word "pooh bahs" is a plural noun that refers to people who hold high rank and pompous authority. Its correct spelling is /puː ˈbɑːz/ which is represented by the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). It is important to note that this word is often misspelled as "poo bahs" or "poo-bahs". This mistake can be avoided by remembering that there are two o's in "pooh" and no hyphen in "bahs". The correct pronunciation is "poo bahz" with a long u sound in "pooh" and a sharp z sound at the end of "bahs".
Pooh Bahs refers to individuals holding positions of power or authority who exhibit an inflated sense of self-importance and exhibit a tendency to act or speak in an arrogant or condescending manner. The term is derived from the character "Pooh-Bah" in Gilbert and Sullivan's operetta "The Mikado."
In the literary sense, Pooh-Bah is a character who holds multiple high-ranking governmental positions concurrently, such as Lord High Everything Else. This fictional character serves as a satirical representation of individuals who wield excessive influence and engage in quid pro quo relationships. Their actions often prioritize personal gain and status over the greater good or the needs of the people they are meant to serve.
In a broader sense, when used in real-life contexts, the term Pooh Bahs is employed to describe influential or powerful figures - whether in politics, corporations, or other institutions - with similar characteristics. These individuals are often seen as being detached from the concerns and struggles of ordinary people, as they prioritize their own interests and ego. Pooh Bahs may exhibit an elitist attitude, engaging in patronizing behavior towards those they consider beneath them.
The term Pooh Bahs has come to represent the abuse of power, entitlement, and arrogant behavior exhibited by individuals in positions of authority. It is often used to criticize those who prioritize personal gain over the responsibilities and duties entrusted to them, highlighting the negative consequences their actions can have on society as a whole.
The word "pooh-bah" originated from the comic opera "The Mikado" written by W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan in 1885. In the opera, "The Mikado", there is a character named "Pooh-Bah" who holds numerous high-ranking positions, such as the Lord High Everything Else, Lord Chief Justice, and Lord High Admiral. Pooh-Bah, with his exaggerated sense of self-importance and multiple titles, came to represent a pompous, self-important person with many positions and authorities. Over time, the term "pooh-bah" began to be used in general English language and culture to refer to any person who holds high-ranking titles and exercises great authority or power.