best boy

American  

noun

Movie and Television Slang.

1. the first assistant to the head electrician.

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best boy British  

noun

1. the assistant to the senior electrician or to the key grip in a film crew

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Example Sentences

It’s telling that while Mr. Deakins takes pains to praise his longtime gaffer, key grip, dolly grip, best boy and more, he never bothers to define those roles for the lay reader.

From The Wall Street Journal

‘You’re the best boy in the world. I’ll never, ever forget you.’

From Literature

Before “Dawson’s Creek” finished its six-season run, its shining star and America’s best boy had already set his sights on something else — a role that could pervert his sweet smile into a loathsome, stomach-churning grin.

From Salon

“I’m the best boy ever! I love to play. I love snuggling and I’ll let you put silly costumes on me,” said the caption on the Feb. 14, 2022 Instagram post.

From Los Angeles Times

"From key grip to best boy, everyone on the show has a fabulous recipe to share," the description of the book reads.

From Salon