boy

boy · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A male child or young man.

  2. 2.

    Used to express strong emotion, especially surprise or excitement.

  3. 3.

    A son.

  4. 4.

    (informal) A man, especially when addressed familiarly.

Forms

plural: boys

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    boy meets girl — a conventional romantic narrative
  • •
    boys will be boys — excusing typical male behavior
  • •
    the boys — a group of male friends
  • •
    old boy — an alumnus; a term of familiar address
  • •
    attaboy — expression of encouragement
  • •
    oh boy — exclamation of surprise or dismay

Related words

Antonyms: girl, man
See also: child, girl, son, youth
Synonyms: fellow, kid, lad, youngster, youth

Etymology

From Middle English "boi" meaning servant, commoner, or knave, possibly from Old French "embuié" meaning fettered, or from an unattested Old English word. The origin is uncertain.