boy

[bɔɪ]

boy Definition

  • 1a male child or young man
  • 2a male servant, especially one who performs odd jobs in a household

Using boy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "boy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The boy is playing with his toy car.

  • Example

    He was a farm boy before he became a famous actor.

  • Example

    The family hired a boy to do the yard work.

  • Example

    He's just a little boy.

boy Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for boy

Idioms Using boy

  • used to express the view that mischievous or childish behavior is typical of boys or young men and should not cause surprise when it occurs

    Example

    He broke a window while playing ball, but boys will be boys.

  • a boy and his dog

    a close relationship between a boy and his pet dog

    Example

    The movie tells the story of a boy and his dog who go on a journey together.

  • a newcomer to a place or group

    Example

    He's the new boy in town, trying to make friends.

Phrases with boy

  • a man who does not conform to approved standards of behavior, especially in a particular sphere of activity

    Example

    He was known as a bad boy of the art world.

  • a young man who is considered to be wholesome, friendly, and reliable

    Example

    He's the boy next door type, always willing to help out.

  • a former male student of a school, college, or university

    Example

    He's an old boy of Eton College.

Origins of boy

from Middle English 'boi', of unknown origin

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Summary: boy in Brief

The term 'boy' [bɔɪ] refers to a male child or young man, as well as a male servant. It can be used to describe a person's age or occupation, such as 'He's just a little boy' or 'The family hired a boy to do the yard work.' 'Boy' also appears in phrases like 'bad boy,' denoting nonconformity, and idioms like 'boys will be boys,' suggesting that mischievous behavior is typical of young males.

How do native speakers use this expression?