attaboy
An expression of encouragement, support, or approval toward a boy, man, or male animal, used as a standalone interjection before or after a sentence. Largely presumed to be a corruption of the expression "that's the boy"; it is also sometimes spelled "atta boy." You won the spelling bee? Attaboy! Attaboy, Luke! Nice home run! Atta boy! I knew you'd get an A on your science test if you just studied a little harder.
attagal
An expression of encouragement, support, or approval toward a woman, used as a standalone interjection before or after a sentence. It is a variation of the more common (but also potentially diminutive) "attagirl"; sometimes spelled "atta gal." A: "I was promoted to executive manager this morning." B: "Attagal! You're in the big leagues now!" Atta gal, Jenn! I knew they'd publish your article! The boss is going to implement your suggestions after all? Attagal!
attagirl
An expression of encouragement, support, or approval toward a girl, woman, or female animal, used as a standalone interjection before or after a sentence. Largely presumed to be a corruption of the expression "that's the girl"; it is also sometimes spelled "atta girl." Attagirl! I knew you would ace your exam. Attagirl, Lucy! Nice home run! Atta girl! I knew you'd win the student council election!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.