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Definition of pal

pal

/pæl/
pal
Plural:pals
•
Adjective:pally
•
Past Simple:palled
•
Past Participle:palled
•
Present Participle:palling
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pal Lexical Profile

pal Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A close friend, companion, or comrade (informal).

Example

"They have been best pals ever since they met in elementary school."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To associate or spend time together as friends (usually followed by 'around' or 'up').

Example

"During the summer break, he mostly palled around with the kids from his neighborhood."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pal
Antonyms
View all antonyms for pal

Word Nuance & Usage

When used as a direct form of address toward a stranger (e.g., "Listen here, pal"), the word often carries an ironic, impatient, or mildly confrontational tone rather than genuine friendliness.

• Rhymes for pal

• Nearby Words

pakistan
pakistani
pakora
pal
palace
palacsinta
paladin

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 17th century from English Romani 'pal' (meaning 'brother' or 'comrade'), which traces back through Continental Romani 'phral' to the Sanskrit word 'bhrātṛ' ('brother').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pal
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