bossy
16 synonyms and 3 antonyms for bossy, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Fond of giving orders to others, often more than is welcome or necessary.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
Formed from "boss" plus the adjective-forming suffix "-y."
Full origin of bossy →Frequently asked questions
What does “bossy” mean?
The word “bossy” means fond of giving orders to others, often more than is welcome or necessary. In plain terms, someone who likes telling other people what to do, usually seen as an unattractive trait.
How do you pronounce “bossy”?
“Bossy” is pronounced BO-see (/ˈbɔsi/ in IPA).
How do you use “bossy” in a sentence?
Here is “bossy” used in a sentence: “Her bossy older brother always decided what game they would play.”
What is another word for “bossy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “bossy” include autocratic, coercive, controlling, despotic, dominant and domineering.
What is the opposite of “bossy”?
The opposite of “bossy” — its antonyms — are humble, servile and sycophantic.
What part of speech is “bossy”?
“Bossy” is an adjective.