Paris and urban French meaning
bobo
A socially progressive, culturally fashionable person associated with relative economic comfort.
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Meaning
Bobo shortens bourgeois-bohème. In Paris it often describes people, neighborhoods, tastes, or lifestyles combining cultural progressiveness with middle-class or affluent comfort.
Pronunciation and grammar
/bo.bo/ · noun and adjective
Variants and common forms: bourgeois-bohème
Informal social label; often ironic or critical.
How it is used
The label is strongly associated with discussions of Paris neighborhoods, gentrification, food, design, politics, and cultural taste.
Examples
French: Le quartier est devenu très bobo.
Plain English: The neighborhood has become associated with affluent, culturally fashionable residents.
French: Ce café a une ambiance bobo.
Plain English: This café has a fashionable bourgeois-bohemian atmosphere.
Important context
Bobo is a broad stereotype rather than a precise social category. It can carry criticism about class, privilege, or gentrification.