noun
bobby
BO-bee
noun
1
British informal term for a police officer.
"A friendly bobby gave us directions to the station."
How to Use Bobby
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA British slang word for a police officer, especially one on foot patrol.
UK vs US
This word is distinctly British; American English doesn't use "bobby" for police officers.
Word Forms
bobbies plural, bobbies plural
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A friendly _____ gave us directions to the station.
Etymology
Named after Sir Robert Peel, who founded London's modern police force — "bobby" is a nickname derived from "Robert."