attaboy

[ at-uh-boi ]

interjection

, Informal.

1. (used as an enthusiastic expression of encouragement or approval to a boy, man, or male animal.)

attaboy

/ ˈætəˌbɔɪ /

sentence substitute

1. slang.
   an expression of approval or exhortation

Word History and Origins

Origin of attaboy¹

1905–10, Americanism; alleged to be a reduced form of that's a boy or that's the boy

Example Sentences

He was censured by his colleagues in the House but given an “Attaboy, Charlie!”

From The Daily Beast

In the ominous silence a cracked voice yelped: "Attaboy Fenton!"

From Project Gutenberg

He did go and support the team, and enhance the glory of Zenith, by yelling "Attaboy!"

From Project Gutenberg

It will be observed that Mr. Burke has given his attaboy a "t" too many.

From Project Gutenberg