laddie
/'lædi/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - A young boy or male child. This is an informal, often affectionate or familiar term used when addressing or referring to a boy.
Usage
"Laddie" is primarily used in informal contexts, especially in Scottish and Northern English dialects. It conveys a sense of familiarity, affection, or sometimes gentle authority when speaking to a boy. It is less common in formal or standard international English.
Examples
- Noun:
- Come here, laddie, and I'll show you how to tie that knot.
- He's a brave little laddie, isn't he?
- The old sailor had a story for every young laddie who would listen.
Advanced Usage
- As a term of endearment or camaraderie: Often used by older men when addressing younger boys, implying a shared masculine experience or passing on wisdom.
- You'll understand when you're older, laddie.
- In historical or regional narrative: Frequently found in literature or film set in Scotland or depicting Scottish characters.
- The tale was about a young laddie who went on a great adventure.
Variants and Related Words
- Lad (noun): A more common and widespread synonym for a boy or young man. "Laddie" is essentially a diminutive form of "lad."
- Lassie (noun): The female counterpart, meaning a young girl.
Synonyms
- Boy
- Kid (informal)
- Youngster
- Youth
Antonyms
- Lassie (specifically as the female counterpart)
- Man (as an adult male)
- Adult
Related Idioms and Phrases
- "My lad" / "My laddie": A possessive, affectionate form of address.
- That's the way, my laddie!
- "Sonny" or "young man": Serve similar functions as familiar forms of address to a boy, though with slightly different regional connotations.
Noun
- a male child (a familiar term of address to a boy)