WordGarden.iolad
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈæd/
US
- /ˈlæd/
Meanings
Noun
a boy or young man
a male friend, companion, or one of the guys in a group
Beyond the definition
"Lad" is a common word for a boy or young man, especially in British and Irish English. It often sounds warm and familiar. You might picture a cheerful farm boy helping with the harvest or a lively young man joking with his friends. While "boy" is more neutral, "lad" often feels more personal.
Historically, "lad" could also refer to a young apprentice or servant, someone learning a trade. You still hear it often in British and Irish speech, where it is part of everyday language. It is less common in formal writing, but it appears often in stories and conversation. A "good lad" usually means a helpful, decent, well-liked young male.
The word "lad" refers to a boy or young man, but it is often a little warmer and more familiar than simply saying "boy." It can suggest youthful energy, friendliness, and sometimes a slightly playful or cheeky nature. Think of the classic image of a country boy tending sheep or a playful young man getting into minor trouble.
The term comes from Middle English and was once used for a youth of humble status or for a young assistant. That history helps explain older uses where it can mean an apprentice or someone helping with work, a young man learning by doing. Even so, in most modern use, it simply means a boy or young man, often with a sense that he is lively, good-natured, or a little cheeky.
You'll find "lad" used most often in British and Irish English, where it adds warmth and familiarity. For example, "He was just a young lad when he started playing the guitar," or "The lads are going down to the pub tonight." In the plural, "the lads" often means a group of male friends or companions.
It is also used affectionately as a term of address: "Alright, lad?" is a common greeting in many parts of the UK. While it is generally positive, it can also be used to tease or lightly scold someone, as in "You silly lad!" In the end, "boy" is the more neutral word, while "lad" carries extra social and cultural feeling.
Examples
- 1
Young man
A tall lad in a red jacket opened the door for us.
- 2
School memory
He was a shy lad at school, but now he talks to everyone.
- 3
Direct address
Thanks for carrying those boxes, lad.
- 4
Group address
Come on, lads, the bus leaves in five minutes.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Friends night out
Dan is out with the lads tonight.
- Phrasethe lads
a man's male friends
- 6
Friendly praise
He's a good lad, but he needs to be more careful with money.
- Phrasegood lad
a friendly way to praise or approve of a boy or young man
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ladnoun
Forms
- ladspluralnoun