tomboy

noun

tom·​boy ˈtäm-ˌbȯi How to pronounce tomboy (audio)
Synonyms of tomboy
: a girl who behaves in a manner usually considered boyish
tomboyish
ˈtäm-ˌbȯi-ish How to pronounce tomboy (audio)
adjective
tomboyishness noun

Examples of tomboy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There is no benign male version of tomboy. — Adam Stanaland, The Conversation, 19 Mar. 2026 The singer who was able to code-switch from tomboy to ultra-glam is still the blueprint for women’s streetwear. — Nandi Howard, Essence, 16 Jan. 2026 There’s often a tomboy sensibility at play too, with vintage tees and lightly distressed knits. — Christina Holevas, Vogue, 25 May 2026 Based on the real-life author, the second-oldest Ingalls daughter is portrayed as a tomboy and animal lover with a big heart. — Kelly Martinez, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for tomboy

Word History

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tomboy was in 1566

Rhymes for tomboy

See All Rhymes for tomboy

Browse Nearby Words

Tombouctou
tomboy
tomboyful
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tomboy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tomboy. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

tomboy

noun
tom·​boy ˈtäm-ˌbȯi How to pronounce tomboy (audio)
: a girl who enjoys things some people think are more suited to boys
tomboyish
-ish How to pronounce tomboy (audio)
adjective
tomboyishness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on tomboy

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for tomboy

Nglish: Translation of tomboy for Spanish Speakers

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