Definition

Noun: - A member of a British youth subculture that emerged in the 1950s, characterized by a specific style of dress inspired by Edwardian fashion and an association with rock and roll music. The subculture was predominantly working-class and known for its involvement in social disturbances.

Usage

The term "Teddy Boys" refers specifically to the group as a collective subculture or to its individual members. It is a proper noun and is often capitalized. - The Teddy Boys caused a moral panic in 1950s Britain with their distinctive style and rebellious attitude. - He dressed as a Teddy Boy for the vintage-themed party.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe things associated with the subculture.
  • She collects Teddy Boy memorabilia.
  • The film explores the Teddy Boy era.

Variants and Related Words

• Ted (n.): An informal, shortened form of "Teddy Boy."
  • The local Teds hung around the coffee bar.

Word Forms

• Singular: Teddy Boy
• Plural: Teddy Boys

Synonyms

• Rocker (Note: While both are 1950s/60s subcultures associated with rock music, "Rocker" typically refers to a later, motorcycle-riding style, whereas "Teddy Boy" is specifically the earlier, Edwardian-inspired style.)
• Juvenile delinquent (This is a broader, more general term for young lawbreakers, not specific to this subculture.)

Related Concepts

• Subculture: A cultural group within a larger culture, often having beliefs or interests at variance with those of the larger culture.
• Edwardian style: The fashion of the early 20th century (1901-1910) reign of King Edward VII, which the Teddy Boys adapted and exaggerated.

Noun

1. a British youth subculture that first appeared in the 1950s; mainly from unskilled backgrounds, they adopted a pseudo-Edwardian dress code and rock'n'roll music; proletarian and xenophobic, they were involved in race riots in the United Kingdom