Bachelor Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈbætʃələr/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A man who has not married and has not taken any partner or wife, often used to describe a man who is young, single, and socially active.

Examples

• He’s a successful bachelor and enjoys his freedom.
• The bachelor pad is decorated with trendy furniture and gadgets.

Synonyms

• Single man
• Unmarried male

Antonyms

• Married man
• Coupled man

Etymology

The word “Bachelor” comes from the Old French “bacheler”, meaning “youth” or “unmarried man”, which is derived from the Latin “baccalaris”, meaning “related to a bachelor’s degree”.

Additional Information

The term “bachelor” is often used to describe a man who is not yet settled down, whether by choice or circumstance. In modern times, the term has taken on a more positive connotation, implying a sense of independence, freedom, and adventurous spirit.

However, the term can also be used in a derogatory manner to refer to a man who is perceived as being unwilling or unable to commit to a relationship.

Usage Notes

The term “bachelor” is typically used to refer to an unmarried man, but it can also be used to describe a man who is not married but has a partner or is in a long-term relationship.

In formal contexts, the term “unmarried male” or “single man” may be used instead of “bachelor” to avoid any potential connotations of immaturity or irresponsibility.

Cultural References

The term “bachelor” is often used in popular culture to refer to a man who is young, single, and socially active. For example, the TV show “Two and a Half Men” features a main character named Charlie Harper who is a successful bachelor.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the term “bachelor” include:

• “Bachelor lifestyle” – a lifestyle characterized by a focus on personal freedom and independence.
• “Bachelor pad” – a man’s apartment or living space that is decorated with a bachelor’s taste.

Related Words or Phrases

• Single
• Unmarried
• Coupled
• Married

Collocations

Some common collocations with the term “bachelor” include:

• Bachelor party
• Bachelor pad
• Bachelor degree

Frequency of Use

The term “bachelor” is commonly used in everyday language to refer to an unmarried man, and is often used in a positive or neutral sense.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of the term “bachelor” include:

• Batchet
• Bachler
• Batcher