# Charley

/ˈtʃɑɹɫi/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/charley
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a person who acts like a fool or makes a silly mistake. You use this word in a friendly way to tease someone for being clumsy or slow.

For teachers: a person who behaves foolishly or exhibits a lack of common sense. Informal in register and primarily used in British English as a mild, non-offensive pejorative.

## Examples

- I felt like a proper charley when I forgot my own keys.
- Don't be such a charley; the entrance is on the other side of the building.
- While the term is relatively mild, calling a colleague a charley during a formal meeting might still be perceived as unprofessional despite its generally affectionate connotations in casual speech.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the phrase 'a proper charley' or 'a right charley' to emphasize the level of silliness.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.