young man

noun

Etymology: Inherited from Middle English yong man, from Old English ġeong mann; by surface analysis, young + man. Compare yeoman.

1. A term of endearment or admonishment by adults for a young boy.

   “I can't understand you, young man. Can you point to which toy you want?”

   “That does it, young man! You are excused to your room!”

2. A male lover; a sweetheart.

   “"Lane Coutell. He's only been Franny's boy friend for a whole year. ..." "The expression is Franny's 'young man,'" he said, "not her 'boy friend.' Why are you so out of date, Bessie? […]"”

3. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see young, man.