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

“We started telling each other ‘I love you’ last year,” one old boy says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 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

A five-year-old old boy died as a result of an accident after falling from a harbour wall in Padstow, a coroner has concluded.

From BBC • Jan. 3, 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

“You are fortunate to have me as your scientist, old boy, or else I think you’d still be blowing up little aluminum tubes.”

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam