- 1(North American English also bud) (informal) a friend an old college buddy of mine Howard and Mick were drinking buddies. We were good buddies. I’d like you to meet an old college buddy of mine. Wordfinderfriendacquaintance, bond, buddy, companion, comrade, friend, mate, neighbour, platonic, playmate See related entries: Friends
- 2(also bud) (both North American English, informal) used to speak to a man you do not know ‘Where to, buddy?’ the driver asked.
- 3(especially North American English) a partner who does an activity with you so that you can help each other The school uses a buddy system to pair newcomers with older students. Her driving buddy was in trouble. Word Originmid 19th cent. (originally US): perhaps an alteration of brother, or a variant of butty, a term for a friend or workmate amongst miners.
Check pronunciation: buddy
