Definition

Proper noun 1. An international youth movement: "Boy Scouts" refers to a worldwide, decentralized organization founded in 1908 in England. Its primary aim is to develop character, teach practical outdoor skills, and promote good citizenship, self-reliance, and community service in boys and young men.

Usage

• "Boy Scouts" is always capitalized as it is the official name of an organization.
• It is typically used with a singular verb when referring to the organization as a single entity, and with a plural verb when referring to its members collectively.
• The term can refer to the global movement, a specific national organization (e.g., the Boy Scouts of America), or the members themselves.

Examples

• Referring to the organization:
  • The Boy Scouts teaches valuable life skills.
  • He has been involved with the Boy Scouts since he was eight.
• Referring to the members:
  • The Boy Scouts are cleaning up the local park this weekend.
  • A group of Boy Scouts helped carry the groceries.

Advanced Usage

• "Boy Scout" (singular, common noun): Can be used informally to describe a person, often pejoratively, who is perceived as overly idealistic, honest, or earnest.
  • He's such a Boy Scout; he always follows the rules exactly.

Variants and Related Words

• Scouting (n): The activities and principles of the Boy Scouts movement.
  • The values of Scouting include trustworthiness and helpfulness.
• Scout (n): A member of the Boy Scouts.
  • He is a Scout in Troop 101.
• Boy Scout troop (n): A local unit of Boy Scouts.
• Girl Scouts (n): The parallel international movement for girls.

Synonyms

• Scouts: A common shortened form for the Boy Scouts organization or its members.
• Scouting movement: A descriptive synonym for the organization.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Boy Scout oath/law: Refers to the formal code of conduct and pledge that members promise to uphold.
  • He takes the Boy Scout oath very seriously.
• Boy Scout manual/handbook: The official guidebook containing skills, requirements, and principles for members.

Noun

1. an international (but decentralized) movement started in 1908 in England with the goal of teaching good citizenship to boys