johnny

noun

john·​ny ˈjä-nē How to pronounce johnny (audio)
plural johnnies
1
often Johnny : fellow, guy
2
: a short-sleeved collarless gown that is open in the back and is worn by persons (such as hospital patients) undergoing medical examination or treatment

Examples of johnny in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Johnnies thrive on messy, on disruptive pressure that limit possessions to compensate for what is ordinarily their own offensive shortcomings. Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 28 Mar. 2026 And just like that, the Johnnies’ deepest NCAA Tournament run in 27 years came to a sudden — and devastating — end. Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 28 Mar. 2026 Can Rick Pitino and the Johnnies keep their magic going against top seed Duke? Andrew Greif, NBC news, 27 Mar. 2026 The Panthers' stingy defense hung in against the Big East champions' vibrant offense, but Ejiofor and the Johnnies have resembled a national title contender since shortly after the calendar flipped to 2026. CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026 While its regular season wasn't amazing, Kansas is loaded with talent as usual — and Pitino thinks the Jayhawks could be one of the few teams capable of besting the Johnnies' power and strength in the post. ABC News, 21 Mar. 2026 The Johnnies’ physicality and defensive ability may give them the best shot at limiting superstar Darryn Peterson and, if both get there, challenging Cam Boozer and the top-seeded Blue Devils. Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 16 Mar. 2026 This year, the Johnnies go again but must travel to San Diego to face Northern Iowa in the first round. Eddie Pells, Chicago Tribune, 16 Mar. 2026 At 6 feet 3, Trey was the Johnnies’ starter last season, completing 73% of his passes (281 for 386) for 3,352 yards, 40 TDs and seven interceptions. Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 9 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from the name Johnny

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of johnny was in 1648

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Johnny.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/johnny. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

Medical Definition

johnny

noun
john·​ny
variants also johnnie or johnny gown
plural johnnies also johnny gowns
: a loose robe that is usually open in the back and is worn by patients in a medical facility (such as a hospital) : hospital gown
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