Hobby bobby is British slang for a special constable — a part-time volunteer police officer who assists regular police. The term combines 'hobby' (something done as a pastime rather than professionally) with 'bobby' (British slang for a police officer). It carries a mildly dismissive connotation, implying the special constable lacks the full authority and training of a regular officer. Used informally by regular officers, the public, or in casual discussion of policing in the UK.
The town centre on a Friday night was patrolled mainly by hobby bobbies — you could usually charm your way through anything.
No comments yet — say something.
(UK, slang) A special constable.
No comments yet — say something.
Add your own interpretation of "hobby bobby".
Regional slang from around the English-speaking world — British, Australian, Irish, Caribbean, Nigerian, Filipino, AAVE, and the hyphenated-English dialects that make the internet sound local.
See all Regional & Other slang on Slangora.