pal
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.a friend or a person you spend time with.
n.a companion or friend. Informal in register; common in British and Australian English.
Simple“We have been best pals since we started primary school together.”
In context“He went for a few drinks with his old school pals to celebrate his recent promotion.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a word used to address a man, often when the speaker is being unfriendly or angry.
n.an informal term of address for a male, frequently employed ironically to signal hostility or a warning.
Simple“Listen, pal, I do not want any trouble in my shop.”
In context“The bouncer stepped forward and told the rowdy customer to move along, pal, before things got physical.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to spend time with someone as a friend.
v.to associate as friends; typically used with 'up' or 'around'.
Simple“The two boys palled up quickly during their first week at summer camp.”
In context“He spent most of the summer palling around with the local musicians, hoping to learn some of their techniques.”
UsageUsually appears as 'pal up' or 'pal around'.