tomboy

[ tom-boi ]

noun

1. an energetic, sometimes boisterous girl whose behavior and pursuits, especially in games and sports, are considered more typical of boys than of girls.

tomboy

/ ˈtɒmˌbɔɪ /

noun

1. a girl who acts or dresses in a boyish way, liking rough outdoor activities

Derived Forms

• ˈtomˌboyishly, adverb
• ˈtomˌboyishness, noun
• ˈtomˌboyish, adjective

Other Words From

• tomboyish adjective
• tomboyish·ly adverb
• tomboyish·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tomboy¹

First recorded in 1545–55; Tom + boy

Example Sentences

“My question is why isn’t there space for me or others who are different from what we see on a mainstream level…why don’t we get those same opportunities?” asked the self-described tomboy who also suffers from Graves’ disease which can change physical appearance.

From Seattle Times

This doesn’t mean complete freedom, of course; at one point, a group of tomboy Bailey’s older friends, armed with a razor blade, jump a peer accused of messing with one guy’s sister — a scene she runs from with the same alacrity she does Skate in one of his rages.

From Los Angeles Times

She is the consummate cool girl: 33 years old, both a total hottie and a total tomboy, unable to do things like make a real meal or read a book.

From New York Times

Da Brat said she had been fortunate to have the producer Jermaine Dupri as a mentor who never tried to change her tomboy image during the height of her career.

From New York Times

Ever the curious tomboy, I asked, “Is that an old temple?”

From Los Angeles Times