guv

[ guhv ]

noun

, Chiefly British Informal.

1. term of address used to a man, especially by a younger man, boy, employee, or social inferior.
2. governor ( def 6 ).

guv

/ ɡʌv; ˈɡʌvnə /

noun

1. See governor
   an informal name for governor

Word History and Origins

Origin of guv¹

First recorded in 1850–55; by shortening and respelling

Example Sentences

In a controlled study in a hospital in South Africa, we showed that GUV inactivation of airborne TB bacteria was equivalent to 24 ACH—well beyond the capacity of most mechanical ventilation systems and room-air cleaners.

From Time

The Guv quipped, “Here in California, they do have men that become women.”

From The Daily Beast

Mr Blake, thin—Mr Blake, darlint—doesn't ye remimber the promise you guv me?

From Project Gutenberg

Then back he comes with the apoarthecary—him with the red light—and they rips the guv'nor's sleeves up, spilin' his coat.

From Project Gutenberg

So I runs up a parsage, and in the middle of the parsage I tumbles over the guv'nor lyin' acrost the parsage.

From Project Gutenberg

It's no good torkin' perlitely to 'em, guv'nor; you touch some on 'em up with your umberella.

From Project Gutenberg

That Missionary was like a billy-goat, ready to take anything you guv him, from a gold-mine to a empty tin tomato can.

From Project Gutenberg