Pronunciation: [pˈuːhbə] (IPA) 
The word "poohbah" is often spelled with variations, such as "poo-bah" or "poo-ba," which can cause confusion when trying to pronounce it. However, the correct way to spell and pronounce "poohbah" is with three distinct syllables: "poo-bah" /puːbɑː/. The first syllable is pronounced with the "oo" sound as in "moon," while the second syllable has a short "a" sound. The final syllable sounds like the word "baa" as in a sheep's sound.
Poohbah is a noun that originated in the English language, particularly derived from the comic opera "The Mikado" by Gilbert and Sullivan, which was first performed in 1885. It is often used to describe a person who is self-important, pompous, or holds several influential positions simultaneously, exercising a high level of authority or control.
The term "poohbah" typically refers to an individual who occupies a senior or distinguished position in an organization or society, wielding significant power or influence. This person often possesses numerous titles, roles, or responsibilities, making them appear formidable or influential. The use of the term conveys a sense of pretentiousness, indicating that the poohbah may be excessively self-important or carry an air of superiority.
Furthermore, a poohbah is often seen as a figure who exercises a considerable amount of control or autonomy in decision-making, potentially overshadowing or dominating others. This notion implies that the individual may wield an inordinate degree of influence or authority, potentially even making decisions outside the realm of their expertise or field of knowledge.
In common usage, the term "poohbah" can also be employed metaphorically to describe any person who assumes multiple significant roles or possesses a sense of exaggerated self-importance across various contexts. Overall, the term "poohbah" typically denotes a person of great authority or influence, often with an air of self-importance and notoriety.
The word "poohbah" originates from Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera titled "The Mikado", which premiered in 1885. In the opera, there is a character named "The Grand Poobah of Titipu", who holds multiple high-ranking positions simultaneously. The term "poohbah" has since become associated with someone holding a position of great importance or influence.
The term itself was created by W.S. Gilbert, the librettist of the opera, as a playful and humorous name for the character. The exact inspiration for the word remains unclear, as Gilbert was known for inventing whimsical words and phrases. However, some speculate that Gilbert may have derived "poohbah" from the slang term "poo-ba", which was used in mid-19th century Britain to refer to a person of self-importance or high social standing.
