tomboy
/'tɔmbɔi/
Definition
Noun: A girl who enjoys activities, games, and behaviors that are traditionally considered typical of boys. She is often energetic, boisterous, and prefers more active, physical play.
Usage
The word "tomboy" is used to describe a girl whose interests and mannerisms are stereotypically masculine. It is a descriptive term. While often used in a neutral or even affectionate way, it can sometimes carry outdated gender stereotypes. It is typically used as a countable noun.
Examples
- As a young girl, she was a real tomboy, always climbing trees and playing football with the boys.
- Her parents never worried about her getting her dresses dirty; she was a tomboy at heart.
- The character in the book is a classic tomboy, more comfortable in boots than in ballet shoes.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Shift: The concept of a "tomboy" is becoming less common as societal norms around gender-appropriate activities for children evolve. The term itself is sometimes seen as reinforcing a binary view of gender.
- Adjectival Use: While primarily a noun, it can be used attributively (like an adjective) before another noun.
- She had a tomboy style, favoring jeans and t-shirts.
Variants and Related Words
- Tomboyish (adjective): Having the qualities or appearance of a tomboy.
- She has a tomboyish charm and a great sense of adventure.
Synonyms
- Hoyden: An older, more literary term for a boisterous, bold girl. (Somewhat archaic)
- Gamine: Refers to a girl with a mischievous, boyish charm, often used in the context of style or appearance.
Antonyms
- Girly-girl: (Informal) A girl who enthusiastically embraces traditionally feminine interests, styles, and behaviors.
Idioms and Phrases
- A tomboy at heart: Used to describe someone (usually a woman) who, despite their current appearance or age, still has the energetic, non-conforming spirit of a tomboy.
- She may wear suits to work now, but she's still a tomboy at heart.
Noun
-
a girl who behaves in a boyish manner
