Part of Speech

Noun, Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbætʃələr/ (English)

Definitions

• 1. (Noun) An unmarried man, especially one who is socially regarded as eligible for marriage.
• 2. (Noun) A person who has obtained the first degree from a university or college (e.g., Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science).
• 3. (Noun) A type of bird or fish, such as the bachelor button (a species of plant), or a bachelor fish (a fish species).
• 4. (Adjective) Pertaining to a bachelor's lifestyle or situation, often used in terms like "bachelor pad" or "bachelor party."

Usage Examples

• He remained a bachelor well into his 40s, focusing on his career.
• She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the university.
• The bachelor fish is often seen swimming in shallow waters.
• They had a fun bachelor party before the wedding.

Etymology

The word "bachelor" comes from the Old French "bacheler," which was derived from the Late Latin "baccalarius," meaning a young man who was in charge of a particular task or a "junior" rank in medieval societies. It evolved to refer to an unmarried man, likely due to the notion of a young man not yet committed to a wife or family.

Synonyms

• Single
• Unmarried
• Eligible
• Bachelorhood (noun form)

Antonyms

• Married
• Partnered
• Wedded
• Spouse

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In the UK: /ˈbætʃələr/
• In the US: /ˈbætʃəlɚ/

Historical Usage

The term "bachelor" has been in use for centuries, originally referring to young knights in medieval Europe, who had not yet attained the title of "master" or were not yet married. Over time, the meaning expanded to refer to unmarried men of all ages, as well as to the first degree received in higher education institutions. The concept of the "bachelor's lifestyle" became more prominent in the 19th and 20th centuries, where it signified independence, freedom, and often, a focus on one's career or personal pursuits.

Cultural Nuances

The notion of being a bachelor has shifted over time and can carry different cultural meanings. In some societies, bachelorhood is seen as a temporary stage before marriage, while in others, it represents personal freedom and a lifestyle choice. For many, a "bachelor party" is a celebratory rite of passage before marriage, embodying the final moments of single life. The "bachelor pad" is a cultural reference to a living space that reflects a man's independent lifestyle. Cultural attitudes toward bachelorhood vary greatly by region and personal values.

More Information

The bachelor’s degree is one of the most widely recognized educational qualifications globally. It is typically awarded after the completion of undergraduate studies and is an essential stepping stone for pursuing graduate-level education or a professional career. The term "bachelor" continues to hold significance in academic, social, and cultural contexts, with both positive and neutral associations depending on the perspective. In modern times, the idea of being a bachelor is no longer confined to a specific age or social class, and bachelorhood can be a conscious choice for some individuals seeking personal fulfillment outside the traditional norms of marriage and family.