Archie
Archie (name) means a shortened, informal form of the given name Archibald, also used on its own. Example: “Everyone just calls him Archie, never Archibald.”
How to use Archie
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA common nickname for Archibald, or old slang for anti-aircraft fire.
Word forms
Archies plural, Archies plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Everyone just calls him _____, never Archibald.
Etymology
A clipped form of "Archibald"; the anti-aircraft sense reportedly comes from a music-hall song refrain shouted by pilots under fire.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for Archie
See all rhymes for Archie →Frequently asked questions
What does “Archie” mean?
The word “Archie” means a shortened, informal form of the given name Archibald, also used on its own. In plain terms, a common nickname for Archibald, or old slang for anti-aircraft fire.
How do you pronounce “Archie”?
“Archie” is pronounced AHT-shee (/ˈɑɹt͡ʃi/ in IPA).
How do you use “Archie” in a sentence?
Here is “Archie” used in a sentence: “Everyone just calls him Archie, never Archibald.”
What part of speech is “Archie”?
Depending on how it is used, “Archie” can be a name and a noun.
Is “Archie” a common word?
“Archie” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “Archie” have?
“Archie” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a shortened, informal form of the given name Archibald, also used on its own.
What is the difference between Archie as a name and Archie as slang?
As a name, Archie is a shortened, informal form of Archibald, also used on its own as a given name. As slang, Archie was an old term for anti-aircraft artillery, used by British and Commonwealth airmen. These two uses are unrelated in meaning, one being a personal name and the other historical military slang.
Why was anti-aircraft artillery called Archie?
Archie was an old slang term specifically used by British and Commonwealth airmen to refer to anti-aircraft artillery. The definition identifies it as a historical, informal military usage rather than a technical or official term.
Is Archie always short for Archibald?
Archie is commonly a shortened, informal form of Archibald, though it is also used as a standalone given name in its own right. So while it often derives from Archibald, it does not always require that longer form.