What does pal mean?
A pal is an informal word for a friend or companion. It often conveys familiarity, ease, and a degree of affection: calling someone a close or old pal suggests a relationship that may be longstanding, but even the bare word creates a friendly, casual tone. Although the term has traditionally often been used for a male friend, it can also refer to people of any gender. In informal contexts, pal may additionally mean an accomplice or associate, especially when describing someone involved in questionable activity. As a verb, to pal with someone means to spend time with them as a friend. The word is common in both British and American English, though it sounds more relaxed and conversational than formal alternatives such as friend or companion. Its brevity makes it especially useful in casual dialogue, where it quickly communicates camaraderie without sounding overly formal.
An informal friend or companion, especially a male friend.
"He called me from the airport to ask whether his pal had arrived."
Informal and familiar; traditionally often used for a male friend, but also used gender-neutrally.
An accomplice or associate, especially in an informal or criminal context.
"The driver was accused of being the robber's pal."
A less common, context-dependent sense that can imply shared or criminal involvement.
To spend time with someone as a friend or to befriend them.
"We pal around after work whenever we have the chance."
Informal; often used in the phrase pal around with.
The standard plural of the noun meaning a friend or accomplice.
"Several of his pals came to the party."
A single syllable can turn a stranger into an old friend: calling someone a pal immediately suggests easy familiarity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pal come from?
The word is attested in English from the early nineteenth century as an informal term of address or companionship. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, and it should not confidently be assigned to a specific foreign source. It subsequently became particularly common in American English, where it remains a familiar word in casual speech.
Related word forms
How pal is actually used
The word is mainly informal and friendly, though it can sound old-fashioned or overly familiar. It has traditionally often referred to a male friend, although it is also used gender-neutrally.
Easily confused with pal
A pal is an informal friend, whereas a pall is a cloth that covers a coffin or a person at a funeral.