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Definition of childishness

childishness

/ˈtʃaɪl.dɪʃ.nəs/
chil · dish · ness
Adverb:childishly
•
Plural:childishnesses
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Adjective:childish
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childishness Lexical Profile

childishness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of behaving in a silly, petty, or emotionally immature manner, especially when exhibited by an adult or older person.

Example

"The mediator urged both executives to set aside their petty childishness and focus on resolving the contract dispute."

2

The natural state, character, or disposition characteristic of a young child.

Example

"As the siblings grew into teenagers, the carefree childishness of their early years gradually gave way to more serious interests."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for childishness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for childishness

Word Nuance & Usage

"Childishness" carries a pejorative connotation when applied to adults, emphasizing pettiness or a lack of emotional maturity, whereas "childlikeness" is used positively to describe innocent wonder, trust, or spontaneity.

• Rhymes for childishness

• Nearby Words

childhood
childish
childishly
childishness
childless
childlessness
childlike

Word Origin & Etymology

Recorded in Old English as "cildiscnes," formed from "childish" (Old English "cildisc") plus the abstract noun suffix "-ness."

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Childishness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/childishness
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