proby, probie colloq.
(ˈprəʊbɪ)
[f. probationer + -y6, -ie.]
A probationer; spec. U.S., a fireman undergoing probation.
| 1899 L. Becke Old Convict Days ii. 42 For a proby (probationer) you're a plucky one. I won't report you. 1946 Richmond (Va.) News Leader 25 Jan. 11/4 There are times when the ‘probies’ (students at the probationary firemen's school) must think [etc.]. 1969 Publ. Amer. Dial. Soc. lii. 30 Proby, a man on probation because he is new on the force [sc. the Denver Fire Department]... ‘John is still a proby.’ |