Synonyms for

Childish

Verb / ˈtʃaɪldɪʃ / Another word for childish — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

characteristic of a child, immature, not fully developed

Synonyms & similar words

infantile immature juvenile childlike naive infantile youthful puerile unsophisticated adolescent babyish foolish silly unwise inexperienced green callow raw incomplete undeveloped unripe

Synonyms by register

Formal

immature puerile infantile

Informal

kidlike babyish silly foolish

Literary

juvenile callow

Antonyms

mature adult sensible responsible grown-up wise prudent

Common collocations

  • childish behavior
  • childish remark
  • childish tantrum
  • childish games
  • childish argument
  • childish glee
  • childish pranks

Word family

noun childishness
adjective childish

Usage note

Childish typically has a negative connotation, implying immaturity or lack of seriousness. It is often used to criticize behavior that is considered inappropriate for one's age.

Example sentences

  1. She acted childish when she refused to share her toys with her friend.
  2. His childish behavior made him unpopular with his classmates.
  3. The argument between the siblings was rather childish.
  4. The teacher had to remind the students to stop their childish behavior during class.
  5. It's important to grow out of childish habits as you get older.

Quotes

  • To be natural is such a very difficult pose to keep up. - Oscar Wilde
  • I am not young enough to know everything. - Oscar Wilde
  • Childhood is the world of miracle and wonder; as if creation rose, bathed in the light, out of the darkness, utterly new and fresh and astonishing. - Eugene Ionesco

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