Meaning & Definition of word "Childhood"

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    Childhood

    /ˈtʃaɪldhʊd/

    noun:

    • 1. The period of time when a person is a child, typically characterized by early development and growth.
      • Example: Her childhood memories were filled with laughter and adventure.
    • 2. The state or time of being a child.
      • Example: He often reminisces about the simplicity of his childhood.
    • 3. A formative stage in a person's life, influencing their character and development.
      • Example: The experiences of childhood can shape who we become as adults.
    • 4. A particular period in history when one is a child.
      • Example: In his childhood during the 1980s, technology was rapidly evolving.
    • 5. The time in a child's life before they reach adolescence.
      • Example: Childhood is often seen as a magical time full of innocence.

    Etymology

    The word 'childhood' is derived from the Middle English 'childehood', meaning 'the state of being a child'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    lost childhood:

    A nostalgic or poignant reflection on a missed or difficult upbringing.

    childhood friend:

    A person who one grew up with during their childhood period.

    childhood memories:

    Memories from the period of being a child.

    Related Words

    infant:

    A very young child or baby, typically considered to be under one year old.

    toddler:

    A young child, typically between one and three years old, who is learning to walk.

    adolescent:

    A young person in the process of developing from a child into an adult.

    Slang Meanings of childhood

    Meaning: kid time

    Example Sentence: Back in the kid time, we used to play outside all day.

    Meaning: playground years

    Example Sentence: Those playground years were the best part of my life.