Guy
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Guy is used as an alternative term to refer to a man in a similar vein to the terms bloke, fellow, dude and chap. In the plural guys it may refer to a mixed or single sex group of men or women (this usage being most common in American popular culture). Guy is also used as a male given name (personal name).
The name came to prominence from that of Guido (Guy) Fawkes and grew in usage through the burning each year on 5 November of an effigy of him in the UK. This led to the use of the word "guy" as a term for "a person of grotesque appearance" and then to the current general reference for a man. In addition to the large 'guys' placed on the tops of bonfires, young children traditionally make 'a guy' from stuffed old clothes, and parade him around the streets in a wheelbarrow soliciting money. The method of construction is similar to that of a scarecrow.
Alternatives:
- As seen above, Guy (Guido, Gui) is a male proper name (as in Guy de Maupassant) and the origin of the name of Guyenne. However "Guyana" and "Guiana" come from an Amerindian word.
- A guy rope or guy wire is used to keep a mast, tent or other structure in place against the effects of wind.
- Guy is the former name of the Montreal metro station, Guy-Concordia
- Guyed is an 1800s USA term, refering to one who 'is the subject of a prank'.