Langimage
English

boyfriend

|boy-friend|

B2

/ˈbɔɪˌfrɛnd/

male romantic partner

Etymology
Etymology Information

'boyfriend' originates from English, combining 'boy' and 'friend', where 'boy' meant 'young male' and 'friend' meant 'companion'.

Historical Evolution

'boyfriend' evolved from the combination of 'boy' and 'friend' in the late 19th century to describe a male romantic partner.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a male friend', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a male romantic partner'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a male partner in a romantic relationship.

She introduced her boyfriend to her parents.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45