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Booby prize facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Discoloured wooden spoon
A wooden spoon is a common booby prize in sporting events

A booby prize is a funny prize given to someone who finishes last or has a really memorable, not-so-great performance. These prizes are usually not worth much money, but they can be a fun way to celebrate trying your best, even if you don't win! Sometimes, people even feel proud to get a booby prize because it means they were part of the fun.

What is a Booby Prize?

A booby prize is like the opposite of a first-place trophy. Instead of celebrating the winner, it celebrates the person who came in last. It's all done in good fun and is meant to make people laugh. Think of it as a playful way to recognize everyone who participated, no matter their skill level.

Famous Booby Prizes

Some booby prizes are very well-known!

The Wooden Spoon

One famous booby prize is the wooden spoon. This tradition started a long time ago at the University of Cambridge in England. It was given to students who got the lowest score on a tough math exam. Over time, the wooden spoon became popular in sports. Now, you might see it given to the team that finishes last in a tournament, like in rugby or rowing.

The Lanterne Rouge

Another famous booby prize is the lanterne rouge, which means "red lantern" in French. This prize goes to the very last person to finish the famous Tour de France bicycle race. Even though they are last, finishing the Tour de France is a huge achievement, so the "red lantern" is a special way to recognize their effort and determination.

Where Did the Word 'Booby' Come From?

The word booby might sound a bit funny, but it has an interesting history! It comes from the Spanish word bobo, which means "silly" or "foolish." That Spanish word came from the Latin word balbus, which means "stammering" or "stuttering." So, a booby prize literally means a "silly person's prize" or a "fool's prize," but remember, it's all just for fun! The idea of using "booby" to mean a silly person or a dunce appeared way back in 1599. The term "booby prize" itself has been used since at least 1893.

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Booby prize Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.