An old-fashioned word for a friend or mate; also an archaic term for someone who is easily tricked or deceived.
Origin uncertain; possibly from Latin 'colle' (neck) as a term of familiarity, or from Hindi 'khuli' (open). Some scholars suggest it comes from Hindi/Urdu via colonial India. It was common slang in 16th-17th century England, especially in taverns and among rogues.
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