bobby
/'bɔbi/
Definition
Noun: - An informal term for a British policeman: A friendly, colloquial word for a police officer in the United Kingdom, particularly one on foot patrol. The term originates from Sir Robert Peel, who founded the Metropolitan Police Service in London in 1829.
Usage
- The word "bobby" is used as a common noun to refer to a single police officer. It is informal and often carries a friendly or slightly old-fashioned tone.
- It is typically used in British English contexts.
Examples
- Noun:
- The friendly bobby helped the tourist find her way.
- In old films, you often see a bobby walking his beat.
Advanced Usage
- "On the bobby": This is not a standard phrase. The typical phrase is "on the beat," referring to a police officer's regular patrol route, which a bobby would walk.
- The bobby was on his beat when he noticed the open window.
Variants and Related Words
- Peeler (n): An archaic, historical synonym for "bobby," also derived from Sir Robert Peel.
- Constable (n): The formal rank for a police officer, often part of the term "Police Constable (PC)."
Synonyms
- Police officer: The standard, formal term.
- Constable: A formal term for a police officer of the lowest rank.
- Copper (n, informal): Another informal British term for a police officer.
Related Phrases
- "Bobby on the beat": A phrase emphasizing a police officer patrolling a neighborhood on foot.
- Residents feel safer with a bobby on the beat.
Related Idioms
- There are no common idioms that use the word "bobby" itself. The term is primarily a standalone noun.
Noun
-
an informal term for a British policeman
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