good-old-boy
UK[ˌɡʊd ˌəʊld ˈbɔɪ]US[ˌɡʊd ˌoʊld ˈbɔɪ]
n
A man, especially one from the southern US, who is a member of a long-established social network and who uses his connections to maintain influence or favor.
n
A man who is a member of a close-knit, often exclusive, group of male friends or associates, typically characterized by traditional attitudes.
Morpheme Breakdown
good
old
boy
good
virtuous, desirable, valid
old
aged, ancient, of long standing
boy
male servant, young male
Etymology
The phrase "good old boy" is a distinctly American English compound noun, originating in the Southern United States. It is built from three native English words: "good" (virtuous), "old" (long-standing), and "boy" (man, fellow). Literally, it describes a man who is both morally approved ("good") and a long-time member ("old") of a community. The term evolved in the 20th century to specifically denote a male member of an informal, influential social network, where loyalty, shared background, and traditional values are paramount. Its logic lies in the transformation of a literal, complimentary description into a label for a specific socio-cultural archetype, emphasizing insider status and mutual support within a closed group.
Analysis
Structure: good + old + boy
good: Old English 'gōd', meaning 'virtuous, desirable, valid'. In this compound, it functions as an adjective implying positive social standing and approval.
old: Old English 'eald', meaning 'aged, ancient, of long standing'. In this compound, it functions as an adjective implying long-established, traditional connection.
boy: Middle English 'boi', meaning 'male servant, young male'. In this compound, it functions as a noun referring to a man, often with connotations of familiarity and camaraderie.
Examples
He got the contract not through a formal bid but through the good-old-boy network.
The political system there is still dominated by good-old-boy politics.
Despite the company's modern policies, a few good-old-boys still run the club.