buddy

Universal Words noun, verb noun (plural buddies) 1 (AmE also bud) (informal) a friend: an old college buddy of mine * Howard and Mick were drinking buddies. 2 (also bud) (both AmE) used to speak to a man you do not know: 'Where to, buddy?' the driver asked. 3 (especially AmE) a partner who does an activity with you so that you can help each other: The school uses a buddy system to pair newcomers with older students. * Her driving buddy was in trouble. verb (buddies, buddying, buddied, buddied) PHRASALVERBS buddy up (to / with sb) (AmE) 1 = PALUP(WITHSB): You and your neighbour might want to buddy up to make the trip more enjoyable. 2 to become friendly with sb in order to get an advantage for yourself