boyfriend

word

/ˈbɔɪˌfɹɛnd/
BOY-frend
/bˈɔɪfɹɛnd/
BOY-frend

Definition

A boyfriend is a man that someone is in a romantic relationship with. It is often used to refer to a male partner in dating.

Usage & Nuances

'Boyfriend' is informal and mainly used for dating contexts, not for married partners (use 'husband'). Common collocations: 'my boyfriend', 'her boyfriend', 'ex-boyfriend'. In LGBTQ+ contexts, it can refer to a male partner regardless of gender identity.

Example Sentences

She loves her boyfriend very much.

basic

Is he your boyfriend?

basic

I met her boyfriend at the party last night. He seems really nice.

natural

After dating for two years, she broke up with her boyfriend.

natural

My boyfriend is coming to dinner tonight.

basic

Don’t tell anyone yet—I have a new boyfriend!

natural