Boy Definition, Pronunciation, and Usage Examples

Meaning 1：male child (boy)

boy 🔊

/bɔɪ/

A male human from birth until he becomes a young adult.

male child 🔊

➕

/meɪl tʃaɪld/

A young human male, typically from birth to adolescence, often used to refer to a son or a male youth.

📁 Category：Social Roles 🔖 Level：Beginner

📖 Root Explanation

Origin uncertain; possibly from Old English 'bōia' (servant).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'B' + 'oy' as in 'toy' — a boy likes toys!

📖 Example

The boy was excited to open his birthday presents. 🔊 The boy was excited to open his birthday presents.

🔗 Collocations

boy scout – a member of the Scout movement for boys

boy band – a pop music group consisting of young male singers

boy wonder – a young man who is exceptionally talented or successful

🔄 Synonyms

lad (n.) – a boy or young man

youth (n.) – a young person, typically a male

youngster (n.) – a young person, especially a child

🚫 Antonyms

girl (n.) – a female child or young woman

man (n.) – an adult male human

🌱 Derivatives

boyhood (n.) – the state or period of being a boy

boyish (adj.) – characteristic of a boy; youthful

boyfriend (n.) – a regular male companion in a romantic relationship

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'boy' replaced Old English 'cniht' (knight/servant) in Middle English, reflecting shifts in social roles. Its exact origin is debated.