1. plural of linkboy; boys or young men employed in former times to carry torches or links to light the way for pedestrians at night in streets.
Usage: historical; chiefly British; archaic

Examples

• In 18th-century London, linkboys were a common sight on dark streets, guiding wealthy travelers home.
• The linkboys carried burning torches called links to illuminate the cobblestone paths.
• Wealthy gentlemen would hire linkboys to escort them safely through the unlit city at night.
• The linkboys earned their living by providing light and protection to pedestrians after sunset.