Lad: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used informally, especially in British English, to refer to a young male, generally in a casual or friendly manner. Commonly associated with boys and young men in their early to late teens.

• He's a good lad; always helps out around the house
• The lads are going to the football match tonight

Typically used to describe a male child or a young male, generally below the age of 18. It is a neutral term and can be used in most contexts involving young males. Care should be taken as in some contexts it may have a diminutive or patronizing tone.

• The boy played with his toys all afternoon
• There's a new boy in class

Used to describe a young person, often in a more formal or literary context. It can refer to both males and females but often implies a stage of life rather than just gender. Can sometimes carry a sense of inexperience or immaturity.

• The youth of our community are very active in volunteering
• His youth and enthusiasm were evident in every project he undertook

Used to refer to a male in his late teens or early twenties, often carrying a tone of respect and recognition of emerging adulthood. It is more formal compared to 'lad' or 'boy'.

• That young man has a bright future ahead of him
• Excuse me, young man, could you help me with these bags?

Typically used informally, especially in British English, to refer to a young man or a boy. Often used in a friendly or affectionate manner.

• 'He's a good lad,' said Steve
• 'The lads are going out for a drink tonight
• '

Very common in American English, used to refer to a man in an informal and general sense. Often used in both casual conversations and media to address or mention men without any age-specific connotation.

• 'Who’s that guy standing over there?' 'I'm meeting some guys from work for lunch
• '

More formal than 'guy' or 'bloke', and can be used to refer to a man in a respectful manner. Often used in older texts or in a humorous tone mimicking older language. It can also indicate companionship or being part of a group.

• 'He seems like a decent fellow
• ' 'He’s a fellow at the college
• '

Common in British English, used to refer to a man in an informal and casual manner. It is often used to speak about an ordinary man. There is no specific age connotation.

• 'He's a nice bloke once you get to know him
• ' 'Some bloke on the bus spilled coffee on me
• '