Old Bill

noun

1. a policeman
2. the Old Bill
   the Old Bill functioning as plural policemen collectively or in general

Word History and Origins

Origin of Old Bill¹

C20: of uncertain origin: perhaps derived from the World War I cartoon of a soldier with a drooping moustache

Example Sentences

Everyone stayed close in except Old Bill who was forced to drive to town for supplies and mail.

From Project Gutenberg

The latter had gone fishing with Old Bill as his guide, and their boat could be seen trolling slowly along the far shore.

From Project Gutenberg

Old Bill had been warned repeatedly to see that the boats were firmly tied, but he was careless.

From Project Gutenberg

Old Bill approached warily, knowing from the tone of the voice, that something unpleasant was in store.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Brownell wandered restlessly up and down the beach, watching the lake for a glimpse of the canoe or Old Bill.

From Project Gutenberg