Dictionary.com
definitions
  • synonyms

powder boy

noun
  1. powder monkey(def 1).
Show More

Origin of powder boy

First recorded in 1795–1805
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for powder boy

Historical Examples

  • Powder-boy, bring two eight-inch canister as soon as possible.

    Frank Before Vicksburg

    Harry Castlemon

  • Midshipman Farragut acted as captains aid, quarter-gunner, powder-boy, and anything that was required of him.

    Pike & Cutlass

    George Gibbs

  • The Powder-boy returns the spare powder and the passing-boxes to the magazine.

  • The watchers upon the Cygnet, from Captain to least powder-boy, drew quick breath.

    Sir Mortimer

    Mary Johnston