buddy
9 synonyms and 0 antonyms for buddy, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A friend or casual companion.
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.
How to use buddy
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Informal; common in everyday speech, especially in American English.
Etymology
First recorded in the late 1700s; likely a child's alteration of "brother," though it may also trace back to British dialect "butty," meaning workmate or companion, especially among coal miners.
Full origin of buddy →Frequently asked questions
What does “buddy” mean?
The word “buddy” means a friend or casual companion. In plain terms, a casual, friendly word for a close friend, or a partner assigned for safety or teamwork.
How do you pronounce “buddy”?
“Buddy” is pronounced BUH-dee (/ˈbʌdi/ in IPA).
How do you use “buddy” in a sentence?
Here is “buddy” used in a sentence: “She made a new buddy on her first day at the gym.”
What part of speech is “buddy”?
Depending on how it is used, “buddy” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “buddy” come from?
The word “buddy” dates back to around 1700. First recorded in the late 1700s; likely a child's alteration of "brother," though it may also trace back to British dialect "butty," meaning workmate or companion, especially among coal miners.
Is “buddy” a common word?
“Buddy” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “buddy” have?
“Buddy” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a friend or casual companion.
What is the difference between a buddy and a friend?
A friend is the general word for someone you know and like, often implying a real bond. 'Buddy' is more casual and relaxed, suggesting an easy, friendly companion rather than a deep relationship. All buddies are friends of a sort, but 'buddy' keeps the tone light and informal.
Is 'buddy' formal or informal?
'Buddy' is informal and warm. It suits friendly conversation and is often used to address someone, as in 'Thanks, buddy'. In formal or professional writing, 'colleague', 'companion', or 'friend' fits better. Note that said sharply to a stranger, 'buddy' can sometimes sound impatient rather than friendly.
What is an example of using 'buddy'?
You might say, 'He's my old buddy from school,' or 'They became gym buddies.' It often pairs with an activity, like a 'travel buddy' or 'study buddy', meaning someone you share that activity with. As a greeting, 'Hey, buddy' is a casual, friendly way to address someone.