Boy

A boy is a male child or a young male person. In everyday language, the term commonly refers to someone who is not yet an adult, with the upper end of the range varying by culture and context. The counterpart to a boy is a man, and discussions of boyhood often address development, education, and social roles.

Origin and usage: The English word boy has been in use since the Middle Ages, with uncertain precise origins. Historically, it appeared in forms that could denote young male servants or apprentices, before broadening to refer more generally to male children and youths.

Biological and social meanings: While "boy" points to male sex, it also marks a life stage defined by age and social norms. Biological puberty marks a transition toward adolescence and adulthood, at which point terms like "man" or "adult" become more common. The social meaning of boyhood can vary and is influenced by family, culture, and personal experience.

Culture, education, and media: Boys grow up in diverse environments, and their experiences are affected by parenting, schooling, peer interactions, and media representations. The term appears in various phrases and contexts, including boyhood, boyish demeanor, and organizations such as Boy Scouts or sports teams.

Legal and rights context: Legal systems usually define age in terms of child or minor rather than using the word "boy." Nevertheless, the term remains widely used in demographic descriptions, cultural discussions, and everyday speech.

See also: Girl, Man, Childhood, Adolescent.