Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

good-old-boy

Noun
/ɡʊd oʊld bɔɪ/
Definition
A term used to describe a male who is part of a traditional, often conservative, group or community that values familiarity and loyalty, typically associated with Southern or rural culture.
Examples
  • Despite his flaws, everyone still views him as a classic good-old-boy.
  • The good-old-boy network sometimes makes it difficult for outsiders to break into the local business scene.
Meaning
The phrase often conveys a sense of camaraderie and implicit understanding among group members, sometimes implying that such bonds can lead to nepotism or favoritism.
Synonyms
  • Old boy
  • Country man
  • Local camaraderie