youngling
/ˈjʌŋ.lɪŋ/
NOUN
1. A young person, animal, or plant
A young individual, especially one that has not yet reached maturity; a child, young animal, or young plant.
1.1. A young child or person
Refers to a child or young individual who is still in the early stages of life and has not reached adulthood.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The youngling stayed close to its parents while exploring the unfamiliar surroundings.
- The village elders shared their wisdom with the younglings.
- The caretaker gently comforted the frightened youngling.
Related Words
- adolescent
- infant
- toddler
- minor
- offspring
- schoolchild
1.2. A young animal or offspring
Refers to an immature animal, particularly one that is still dependent on its mother or parents for protection, nourishment, and care.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- adult
- mature animal
Examples
- The youngling followed its mother through the forest.
- The injured youngling was carefully returned to its nest.
- The younglings in the herd stayed together under the watchful eyes of their mothers.
Related Words
1.3. A young or newly growing plant
Refers to a small, immature plant that is still developing and has not reached its full size or maturity.
Synonyms
- sapling
- sprout
- seedling
- shoot
- young plant
Examples
- Each youngling was carefully watered to encourage healthy growth.
- The gardener protected the younglings from strong winds and frost.
Related Words
- budding
- germination
- seed
- growth
- vegetation
ADJECTIVE
2. Young or youthful
Having the qualities or characteristics of someone or something that is young, immature, or in an early stage of development.
2.1. Describing someone or something that is young
Describes a person, animal, or living thing that is in an early stage of life and has not yet reached maturity.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The youngling animals required special care during their first weeks of life.
- The youngling generation showed great enthusiasm for learning new skills.