Definition

Noun (British slang): 1. Boss, employer, or person in charge: A term used to address or refer to someone who has authority over you, such as a manager, supervisor, or the owner of a business. It often implies a familiar, sometimes slightly cheeky or respectful, tone.

Usage

The word "guvnor" is primarily used in informal British contexts. It is a colloquial and slightly old-fashioned spelling of "governor." It is typically used as a form of direct address or reference. * It is often used by working-class characters in fiction or historically. * It can convey respect, but also familiarity or even mild sarcasm, depending on the context and tone of voice.

Examples

• As a form of address:
  • "Anything else you need, guvnor?" the bartender asked.
  • "Right you are, guvnor. I'll get it sorted straight away."
• Referring to someone:
  • "I have to check with the guvnor before I can approve that order."
  • "He's the new guvnor at the building site."

Advanced Usage

• "The guvnor": Can be used as a nickname or title for a respected leader or expert in a particular field, especially in contexts like music or sports.
  • "When it comes to blues guitar, he's the guvnor."

Variants and Related Words

• Governor (n): The standard spelling and more formal term from which "guvnor" is derived. It has broader meanings, including the official head of a state or institution.
• Guv (n): A further shortened, very informal slang variant of "guvnor."

Synonyms

• Boss
• Gaffer (British slang)
• Supervisor
• Manager
• Chief (informal)

Related Idioms

• "(My) old guvnor": A colloquial way to refer to one's father.
  • "I'm going to visit my old guvnor this weekend."

Noun

1. (British slang) boss