beau

American  

[boh] / boʊ /

noun

plural

beaus, beaux

1. a male lover or sweetheart.

2. a frequent and attentive male escort for a girl or woman.

3. a dandy; fop.

   Synonyms:

   coxcomb, dude, blade, swell, peacock

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verb (used with object)

1. to escort (a girl or woman), as to a social gathering.

beau British  

/ bəʊ /

noun

1. a lover, sweetheart, or escort of a girl or woman

2. a man who is greatly concerned with his clothes and appearance; dandy

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Other Word Forms

• beauish adjective

Etymology

Origin of beau

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English, from French, from Latin bellus “beautiful”

Example Sentences

It’s not surprising that Mr. Serrano found his way to Ms. Wilson, who, like Mr. Duncan, the author’s beau ideal of a player, “banks in beauty.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Grant, also Reeves’ longtime friend and collaborator, said she shared the tender photo of her and her beau as a way to thank fans for their best wedding wishes.

From Los Angeles Times

Months into her relationship with Diggs, Cardi B told King she feels “very safe” with her new beau, who she says makes her feel “very confident and very strong.”

From Los Angeles Times

Of course, Swift and her beau announced Tuesday, “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married.”

From Los Angeles Times

After the tune, Swift retired to the balcony with her beau, an “insider” told People.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• boyfriend
• lover
• paramour
• suitor
• sweetheart