old boy

American  

[ohld boi, ohld boi, ohld boi] / ˈoʊld ˈbɔɪ, ˈoʊld ˌbɔɪ, ˌoʊld ˈbɔɪ /

noun

1. Informal. an adult male, especially a Southerner.

2. a lively elderly man.

3. Chiefly British. an alumnus, especially of a boys' preparatory or public school.

4. Chiefly British. old chap.

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old boy British  

noun

1. (sometimes capitals) a male ex-pupil of a school

2. informal

   1. a familiar name used to refer to a man

   2. an old man

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Etymology

Origin of old boy

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

old boy

The old boy accepted, signing up his son as his assistant.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 12, 2026

“I’m glad I made it. The old boy upstairs took care of me,” he said, gesturing skyward.

From Seattle Times ● Jun. 4, 2024

Smith's penalty to the corner led to a catch-and-drive try for Bath old boy Walker, Smith converting to make it 20-12.

From BBC ● Dec. 23, 2023

One mother of a 5-year old boy in Arcadia who was expelled three times suspects he that has an undiagnosed developmental disability.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 4, 2023

While it really is good of you, old boy, to listen to my wishes, I find that I miss that pinkie more than I anticipated.

From "The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge" by M.T. Anderson and Eugene Yelchin