old man

American  

noun

Informal.

1. a father, usually one's own.

   His old man's letting him have the car for the prom.

2. a husband.

   The office is giving my old man a retirement party.

3. a boyfriend or male lover, especially a male lover with whom one cohabits.

4. (sometimes initial capital letters) a person in a position of authority, especially an employer or a commanding officer.

   The Old Man has ordered an inspection for Saturday morning.

5. (used affectionately in addressing a man).

6. old Adam.

7. southernwood.

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old man British  

noun

1. an informal term for father husband

2. informal (sometimes capitals) a man in command, such as an employer, foreman, or captain of a ship

3. facetious an affectionate term used in addressing a man

4. another name for southernwood

5. informal

   1. an adult male kangaroo

   2. (as modifier) very large

6. Christianity the unregenerate aspect of human nature

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Example Sentences

As an old man, it’s not every day you have the opportunity to play Coachella.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2026

The richest old man in Omaha and his handpicked successor are not predicting a crash.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

The House of the Pelican by Elisabeth Kyle, tells the story of Janet, who cannot find the way back to the house where an old man showed her a valuable gold musical box.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

"We lived like kings in our homes. Our life has become an ordeal," the old man said through tears, sitting on a mattress in his tent.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

What kind of fool does that old man think I am?

From "Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher" by Bruce Coville

Related Words

• dad
• father
• husband