fella

American  

[fel-uh] / ˈfɛl ə /

noun

Informal.

1. fellow.

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fella British  

/ ˈfɛlə /

noun

1. a nonstandard variant of fellow

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Usage

What does fella mean? Fella is a very informal way of saying fellow—a general term for a man or boy. Fella can be used as an informal term of address similar to terms like dude, buddy, or pal, as in Hey, fella, what’s new with you? In this way, it’s perhaps most commonly used to refer to or address a male animal, especially a pet, as in Hey, little fella, you’re the cutest!It can also be used by a man to refer to himself, as in Where can a fella find a hot meal around here?Most senses of fella (and fellow) sound old-timey and aren’t commonly used (other than to sound old-timey). However, the plural form, fellas, is somewhat commonly used, especially by men or boys as an informal and familiar way to refer to their male friends (the fellas) or as a way to address them, in much the same way as the term guys. Fella is also used in the informal phrase big fella, referring to a particularly large man or object, as in He’s a big fella, ain’t he?Example: Jen’s having a night out with the ladies, so I’m going to stay here and hang with the fellas.

Etymology

Origin of fella

cf. feller ¹

Example Sentences

“We needed this emotionally after Big Fella went down and the four games we lost on this trip,” Maxey said.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 1, 2024

The slippers are a size nine, which is notable as Collins was known as "the Big Fella".

From BBC • Feb. 27, 2021

Everyone who comes to my house gets a photo with Big Fella.

From The Guardian • Jan. 5, 2020

Jane Leavy also comes on the show to discuss her Babe Ruth biography, The Big Fella.

From Slate • Dec. 24, 2018

Alf found himself thinking, Fella that close-mouthed must have something to hide.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck