Chlapec

Chlapec is a masculine noun in Czech and Slovak that denotes a male child, typically a boy from early childhood up to adolescence. It is the standard term for a young male in everyday speech, while more informal words like chlap or chlapík are used for men or somewhat older boys in colloquial contexts. In Slovak, chlapec serves the same basic meaning; chlap can refer to a man or a fellow, depending on the context.

Etymology and related forms: The word originates from a root meaning a male person, with the diminutive suffix -ec forming a label for a younger or smaller individual. This pattern is common in Slavic languages. Related terms exist in neighboring languages, such as Polish chłopiec, which shares a similar meaning.

Grammar and usage: Chlapec is a masculine animate noun and appears in both singular and plural forms (e.g., one chlapec, several chlapci). In Czech and Slovak orthography and morphology, it follows standard declension patterns for masculine nouns with diminutive nuances reflected in related forms such as chlapeček, an affectionate diminutive meaning “little boy.”

Diminutives and nuance: Chlapeček is a common affectionate diminutive used by parents or adults when referring to a small or cherished boy. The word remains neutral and widely suitable for formal and informal contexts, including education, media, and literature.

See also: chlap (man, guy), chlapeček (little boy, affectionate), chlapec in Slovak usage.