Teddy Boy is a term used to describe a subculture that emerged in Britain during the 1950s. The word is spelled as [ˈtɛdi bɔɪ] in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The initial 't' sound is pronounced with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth. The 'e' sound is short, like the 'e' in 'bet'. The 'd' sound is pronounced with the tongue pressing against the teeth. The 'y' sound is pronounced as a consonant in this word. The final 'i' sound is pronounced as a long 'ee' sound.
A "teddy boy" refers to a subculture that emerged in Britain in the 1950s, characterized by a distinctive style of clothing and rebellious attitudes. The term initially referred to a specific type of young man who adopted a particular fashion style. Teddy boys typically wore drape jackets with velvet collars, drainpipe trousers, narrow-brimmed hats, patterned waistcoats, and crepe-soled shoes. They often accessorized their outfits with brightly colored socks, intricate ties, and flashy accessories like pocket chains.
Beyond their distinctive attire, teddy boys were recognized for their rebellious and nonconformist behavior. They were regularly associated with juvenile delinquency, perhaps best exemplified by their involvement in post-war street violence known as "teddy boy riots." These individuals were often perceived as youthful troublemakers who resisted traditional societal norms and authority figures. The teddy boy subculture had a significant impact on British society, making it one of the most memorable and influential youth movements of the time.
In contemporary usage, the term "teddy boy" often refers to the broader subculture and fashion style associated with 1950s Britain. While its popularity declined after the 1960s, the influence of teddy boys on subsequent youth subcultures remains notable, particularly concerning fashion and individualism.
The word "teddy boy" is believed to have originated in Britain in the early 1950s. The term was used to describe a particular subculture of young men who were known for their distinctive style of clothing and rebellious behavior. The name "teddy" is short for "Edwardian", referencing the Edwardian fashion of the early 1900s that influenced the style of clothing worn by teddy boys. The term "boy" was added to signify their youthful age. Thus, "teddy boy" essentially means a young man who emulates the fashion of the Edwardian period.