good old boy
The term "good old boy" can have both positive and negative connotations, often tied to cultural values and regional attitudes, particularly in the Southern United States.
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Definition
B2General
(informal)A male friend or chum known for camaraderie and mutual support.
Example
- He's a good old boy who always helps his friends out.
C1Southern US
(regional)A man embodying traditional Southern values, including community loyalty and sometimes conservative attitudes.
Example
- He's seen as a good old boy, deeply rooted in local traditions.
C1Derogatory
(pejorative)A man embodying negative stereotypes of Southern culture, such as bias and exclusivity.
Example
- The company's board was criticized for being dominated by good old boys resistant to change.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "good old boy":
good old boydomold fellowold schoolold mateold timerold boyold friendgood boyold chapbig boylittle oldyellow boyboy howdyblue-eyed boyany oldbest boy