Meaning & Definition of word "Puerile"

Puerile

/ˈpjʊəraɪl/

adjective:

  • 1. Childishly silly and trivial.
    • Example: His puerile jokes failed to amuse the audience.
  • 2. Relating to childhood; juvenile.
    • Example: The puerile nature of their arguments made it hard to take them seriously.
  • 3. Lacking in maturity or sophistication.
    • Example: The film was criticized for its puerile humor and lack of depth.
  • 4. Exhibiting a lack of seriousness; trivial.
    • Example: Despite the serious topic, her puerile comments lightened the mood in the room.

Etymology

From Latin 'puerilis', meaning 'of a boy'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

puerile antics:

silly or childish behaviors that are often distracting.

puerile humor:

humor that is juvenile and lacks sophistication.

Related Words

infantile:

characteristic of a child, often denoting regressiveness.

juvenile:

pertaining to young people; immature or childish.

Slang Meanings of puerile

Meaning: Kiddish

Example Sentence: Stop with the kiddish jokes; grow up already!

Meaning: Silly

Example Sentence: That was a silly question to ask.