A Boy Scout refers to a member of the Boy Scouts of America, an organization founded in 1910 that teaches boys and young men outdoor skills, leadership, and good citizenship. Boy Scouts learn to tie knots, build campfires, identify plants and animals, navigate with a map and compass, and work together as a team. They earn merit badges by mastering skills ranging from first aid to cooking to wilderness survival.

The organization emphasizes values like being trustworthy, helpful, and prepared for challenges. Scouts memorize an oath and law that guide their conduct, work toward different ranks by completing requirements, and often go on camping trips where they put their skills into practice.

The phrase Boy Scout also describes someone who seems almost too good to be true: honest, helpful, and eager to follow every rule. If a classmate always volunteers to clean up or never bends the rules even slightly, someone might joke that he's “a real Boy Scout.” This use can be admiring or slightly teasing, depending on the situation.

The organization originally included only boys (hence the name), but in recent years began admitting girls into its programs, though it still carries its historical name. Similar scouting organizations exist worldwide, all sharing the goal of developing capable, confident young people through outdoor adventure and community service.