bobby

bob-by · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (British, informal) A police officer.

  2. 2.

    (Also Bobby) A male given name, diminutive of Robert.

Forms

plural: bobbies

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bobby on the beat — A police officer on patrol.
  • •
    bobby pin — A hairpin (named differently, but sometimes confused).

Related words

See also: constable, cop, officer, policeman
Synonyms: cop, officer, policeman

Etymology

Named after Sir Robert Peel (1788-1850), who established the Metropolitan Police Force in London in 1829. "Bobby" is a nickname for Robert.