buddy

bud-dy · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A close friend (informal).

  2. 2.

    To become friendly with someone.

  3. 3.

    A form of address to a male friend or stranger.

  4. 4.

    A partner assigned for mutual assistance or safety.

Forms

plural: buddies

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    buddy up — to form a partnership or friendship
  • •
    buddy system — pairing people for safety
  • •
    buddy movie — film featuring two friends
  • •
    best buddy — very close friend

Related words

Antonyms: enemy, foe
See also: bud, friend, mate, pal
Synonyms: chum, friend, mate, pal

Etymology

American English, mid-19th century, possibly an alteration of "brother" or derived from British dialect "butty" (companion, workmate), which comes from "booty" in the sense of sharing plunder.