buddy
buddy Lexical Profile
buddy Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A close friend or companion (informal).
"He went fishing over the weekend with his old college buddy."
A partner paired with another person so that they can monitor, assist, and protect each other during a potentially hazardous or unfamiliar activity, such as scuba diving or swimming.
"Before entering the water, each diver must perform a safety check with their assigned buddy."
• verb
To become friendly or partner with someone, especially for mutual support or companionship (often used with "up").
"The camp counselor asked the campers to buddy up before starting the afternoon hike."
Word Nuance & Usage
When used as a term of direct address to a stranger (e.g., "Hey, buddy"), the word can carry a confrontational, patronizing, or sarcastic tone depending on the speaker's inflection.
• Rhymes for buddy
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Attested in the mid-19th century, probably originating as an infantile or dialectal alteration of "brother" or from British regional "butty" (a workmate who shares a booty or allowance).