This article is about the British slang word for scientist. For other uses of the word, see boffin (disambiguation).
In the slang of the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, boffins are scientists, engineers, and other people who are stereotypically seen as engaged in technical or scientific research. The word conjures up a stereotype of mature men in thick spectacles and white lab coats, obsessively working with complicated apparatus. Alongside eccentric genius, portrayals of boffins usually highlight a naive ineptitude in social interaction. A classic English version of an eccentric and obsessed boffin is portrayed by Alec Guinness in the film The Man in the White Suit (1951).