noun
Uncommon
sonny
SUH-nee
Sonny (noun) means an informal, friendly way of addressing a young boy. Example: “Watch your step, sonny," the old man said with a smile.”
noun
1
An informal, friendly way of addressing a young boy.
""Watch your step, sonny," the old man said with a smile."
"Come here, sonny, and I'll show you how to tie that knot."
""Well done, sonny," said the baker, handing the boy a warm roll."
2
A way of addressing a boy or man that carries a note of contempt or warning rather than warmth.
""Don't try that again, sonny," the officer warned."
""You'd better watch yourself, sonny," the stranger growled."
""I've been doing this longer than you've been alive, sonny," he snapped."
How to use sonny
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA casual way of calling a boy or younger man "son," friendly or scolding depending on tone.
When to use it
Informal and can sound condescending, especially from a stranger to an adult man.
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Word forms
- Plural
- sonnies
Fill the gap
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"Watch your step, _____," the old man said with a smile.
Etymology
From son + the diminutive/familiar suffix -y.
Related words
Rhymes for sonny
See all rhymes for sonny →Frequently asked questions
What does “sonny” mean?
The word “sonny” means an informal, friendly way of addressing a young boy. In plain terms, a casual way of calling a boy or younger man "son," friendly or scolding depending on tone.
How do you pronounce “sonny”?
“Sonny” is pronounced SUH-nee (/ˈsʌni/ in IPA).
How do you use “sonny” in a sentence?
Here is “sonny” used in a sentence: “"Watch your step, sonny," the old man said with a smile.”
What part of speech is “sonny”?
“Sonny” is a noun.
Is “sonny” a common word?
“Sonny” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “sonny” have?
“Sonny” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an informal, friendly way of addressing a young boy.
Is "sonny" a respectful or condescending way to address someone?
It depends on tone and context: "sonny" can be an informal, friendly way to address a young boy, but it can also carry contempt or warning when used toward a boy or man, similar to saying "listen here, sonny."
When is "sonny" used affectionately versus as a warning?
Used affectionately, "sonny" resembles a warm nickname from an older person to a child. Used as a warning, it signals irritation or a stern tone, often preceding a rebuke or threat.
Is "sonny" an old-fashioned term?
Yes, "sonny" is somewhat dated and is now heard mostly in older speech patterns or deliberately old-fashioned dialogue, rather than everyday modern conversation.
