calf-love
/kæf lʌv/
NOUN
1. Romantic affection experienced during youth
An innocent, youthful romantic attachment or infatuation, typically experienced during adolescence and often regarded as immature or temporary.
1.1. Innocent romantic affection
A tender and often inexperienced romantic attachment, especially one felt by young people during adolescence.
Synonyms
- puppy love
- young love
- first love
- crush
- dawn of love
Examples
- Calf-love often blooms during adolescence but matures with time and experience.
- Their relationship started as innocent calf-love during their school years.
- Many remember their first experiences of calf-love with a mix of nostalgia and amusement.
Related Words
1.2. Youthful infatuation
An intense but often short-lived romantic fascination or emotional attraction, usually based more on idealization than on mature understanding.
Synonyms
- infatuation
- crush
- puppy love
- young love
Examples
- Parents often view their children's calf-love with a blend of concern and understanding.
- The concept of calf-love is a common theme in literature and coming-of-age stories.