flyboy: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Informal, slang, historical
Quick answer
What does “flyboy” mean?
A male pilot, especially in the military.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A male pilot, especially in the military.
A term used informally for a pilot, often with a connotation of bravado or swagger. In science fiction, can also refer to the pilot of a spacecraft or fighter craft.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More common in American English due to the prominence of US Air Force culture. In British English, 'airman' or simply 'pilot' is more standard.
Connotations
In AmE, evokes a 1940s-50s era of aviation. In BrE, it may sound like an Americanism.
Frequency
Very low frequency in modern BrE; low but recognisable in AmE, often in historical or nostalgic contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “flyboy” in a Sentence
The [adjective] flyboy [verb-phrase]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “flyboy” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He had a real flyboy attitude about him.
American English
- That flyboy charm won't get you far in this Air Force.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rare, only in historical or cultural studies of aviation.
Everyday
Very rare in modern conversation; used for humorous or nostalgic effect.
Technical
Not used in professional aviation contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “flyboy”
- Using it for female pilots (the feminine equivalent is 'flygirl', but also very dated/informal).
- Using it in formal contexts.
- Assuming it is a current, widely understood term.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is specifically masculine. The feminine equivalent 'flygirl' exists but is even rarer and more informal.
It is informal and can be affectionate or slightly dismissive, depending on context. It is not a formal or official title.
Extremely unlikely. It is considered a dated, nostalgic term from a previous era of aviation.
It sounds archaic and may not be understood by younger speakers or in international contexts outside of specific historical discussions.
A male pilot, especially in the military.
Flyboy is usually informal, slang, historical in register.
Flyboy: in British English it is pronounced /ˈflaɪ.bɔɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈflaɪ.bɔɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “He's got that flyboy swagger.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
FLY + BOY: Think of a boy who loves to fly planes.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PROFESSION IS A PERSONAL IDENTITY (The person is defined by the act of flying).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'flyboy' MOST appropriately used?