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 /

1. slang,  an expression of approval or exhortation

Word History and Origins

Origin of attaboy¹

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

Example Sentences

In the jubilant Atlanta clubhouse after the win, Arcia reportedly cracked, “ha-ha, attaboy, Harper.”

From Seattle Times

“Talk about break your heart! As an actor, that’s the best ‘attaboy’ you can get.”

From Los Angeles Times

He tells members of the group, as he famously put it while debating Biden, to “stand back and stand by” — advice that they rightfully took as an “attaboy.”

From Washington Post

In the military, superiors give what are known as challenge coins to soldiers as an attaboy.

From Los Angeles Times

Except for an occasional “attaboy” shoulder shake from his father or a casual arm punch from one of his friends, no one had touched him since his mother.

From Literature

When To Use

What does attaboy mean?

Attaboy is an informal expression of enthusiastic praise or encouragement addressed to boys, men, and male animals (such as one’s dog).Attaboy is an interjection, meaning it’s a term used to express emotion, often outside of a sentence.The term attagirl can be used in the same way to address girls, women, and female animals.Such terms are generally used as a way to cheer someone on, similar to saying “Great job!” or “Way to go!” For example, coaches or parents might say it to a child playing a sport after they’ve done something particularly good.Attaboy is sometimes used as a noun referring to a statement of praise, as in The boss doesn’t usually give out attaboys like that, so he must be pretty impressed.  Example: Attaboy, Ben! Great catch!