noun
boyfriend
A male romantic partner.
She introduces her boyfriend to her parents before they sit down for dinner.
Etymology
Boy and friend combine a male reference with companionship. The compound developed a specific romantic use, identifying a male partner rather than simply any male friend.
More examples
- Her boyfriend lives in the next town.
- They became boyfriends after dating for several months.
- He brought his boyfriend to the wedding.
Forms
boyfriend · boyfriends
Similar words
- husband
- A husband is a married male partner; boyfriend does not imply marriage.