Boyfriend

Definition

Boyfriend is a noun that refers to a male partner in a romantic or intimate relationship, typically used to describe someone’s significant other in a non-marital partnership.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɔɪˌfrɛnd/
• Respelling: BOY-frend

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɔɪˌfrɛnd/
• Respelling: BOY-frend

Etymology

The word "boyfriend" originates from the combination of "boy," meaning a young male, and "friend." The term began to be used in the early 20th century to describe a romantic male partner, particularly for a relationship that is not formalized through marriage.

Derivatives

• Ex-boyfriend (noun)
• Boyfriend-girlfriend (noun)
• Boyfriended (verb, informal)
• Boyfriendy (adjective, informal)
• Boyfriendly (adjective, informal)

Synonyms

• Partner
• Significant other
• Companion

Antonyms

• Girlfriend
• Ex-boyfriend
• Stranger

Usage

The noun "boyfriend" is commonly used to describe a male partner in a romantic relationship, especially one not formalized by marriage. For example, "She introduced her boyfriend to her family." It is typically used in social and informal contexts.

Related Terms

• Girlfriend: A female partner in a romantic relationship.
• Partner: A general term for a significant other, regardless of gender.
• Fiancé: A person engaged to be married, specifically male in traditional usage.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A male partner in a romantic or intimate relationship: Refers to a man involved in a committed, non-marital partnership with someone.
  • Example: "She has been dating her boyfriend for three years."
• A term of endearment for a romantic male partner: Used to refer to a significant other in a familiar, affectionate manner.
  • Example: "Her boyfriend surprised her with flowers."