Pal

Pal (noun / UK & US Slang)

(Also heard as: Pals, Old pal, Pen pal)

Definition:

Pal means a friend. It is a warm, slightly old-fashioned word, but it can flip into a threat: “who are you looking at, pal?” shows how tone changes everything in British speech.

Where Pal Comes From:

It comes from Romani, the language of the Romani people, where a similar word meant brother or friend. It entered English in the 1600s and has been common ever since.

How People Actually Use Pal:

Friendly: “I am going out with a few pals.” Hostile: “Watch it, pal.” The second use is sarcastic and is common in arguments. “Pen pal” and “pally” (friendly) are related everyday words.

Is Pal Rude?

Not in itself, though used sarcastically to a stranger it signals annoyance. In friendly use it is warm.

Examples in the Wild:

• “He is an old pal from school.”

  Meaning: He is a longtime friend.

• “Cheers, pal, I owe you one.”

  Meaning: Thanks, friend.

• “Listen, pal, I was here first.”

  Meaning: Said with irritation: back off.

Similar Slang:

Mate, Mucker, Bestie, Bro, Fam

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