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Childishness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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childishness

[[หˆtสƒaษชldษชสƒnษ™s] ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

behavior

Childishness refers to the state or quality of being immature, childish, or naive. It is the tendency to behave in a silly, petty, or irresponsible manner, similar to that of a child.

Synonyms

childlike behavior, immaturity, naivety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
childishness

Refer to the same word twice for emphasis here might have been an error.
immaturity

Refers to lack of emotional or psychological development. Generally used in a critical or negative context.

  • His immaturity is holding him back at work.
  • The immaturity of their actions was clear to everyone.
naivety

Describes a lack of experience or sophistication, often resulting in overly simple or overly trusting behavior. Can be neutral or subtly negative depending on context.

  • Her naivety led her to believe the scammer.
  • While his naivety is charming, it can sometimes get him into trouble.
childlike behavior

Typically used to describe behavior that is simple, innocent, or full of wonder, often with a positive connotation.

  • Her childlike behavior at the theme park was heartwarming.
  • He approaches life with childlike behavior, always curious and enthusiastic.

Examples of usage

  • She couldn't stand his childishness any longer.
  • His childishness was evident in the way he pouted when he didn't get his way.
Context #2 | Noun

quality

Childishness can also refer to a characteristic or trait of being childlike, innocent, or playful. It is often associated with a sense of wonder and creativity.

Synonyms

childlike quality, innocence, playfulness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
childishness

This is often used negatively to describe behavior that is immature or inappropriate for an adult.

  • His childishness showed when he threw a tantrum over a trivial matter
innocence

Generally positive, innocence refers to the state of being free from guilt, malice, or corruption, often associated with children.

  • The innocence in his eyes convinced everyone that he was telling the truth
playfulness

This word has a positive connotation and is used to describe someone who is fun-loving, lighthearted, and enjoys playful activities.

  • Her playfulness made the party a lot more enjoyable for everyone
childlike quality

This phrase has a more neutral or positive tone and is used to describe qualities that are pure, simple, and straightforward, reminiscent of a child's perspective.

  • Her childlike quality shone through in her candid and innocent questions

Examples of usage

  • His childishness brought a sense of joy and lightness to the room.
  • The artist's work was praised for its childlike whimsy and imagination.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Adults displaying childishness might revert to earlier coping mechanisms when stressed, a process called regression.
  • The tendency to be childish can be linked to emotional intelligence, where some struggle to express feelings maturely.
  • Studies indicate that playful behavior, often seen as childish, can actually enhance creativity and problem-solving in adults.

Literature

  • In many works, characters who embody childishness often represent innocence and spontaneity, challenging societal norms.
  • Classic novels frequently juxtapose childishness with adult responsibilities to explore themes of freedom and conformity.
  • Authors like J.M. Barrie, in 'Peter Pan', celebrate the value of retaining a child's perspective amidst adult realities.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures view childishness variously; some celebrate the laughter and joy it brings, while others may see it as a lack of maturity.
  • In many societies, adulthood is associated with responsibility, contrasting with the freedom and playfulness of childhood.
  • Cultural phenomena like โ€˜adultingโ€™ highlight a desire to balance youthful joy and grown-up obligations.

Pop Culture

  • Many TV shows and films, like 'The Office', feature characters who display childishness for comedic effect, illustrating adult folly.
  • The rise of 'lighthearted' adult cartoons, such as 'Adventure Time', reflects a significant appreciation for the whimsical side of childishness.
  • Internet memes often capitalize on childish behavior, encouraging adults to embrace silliness in their lives.

Developmental Psychology

  • Childishness in adults can sometimes signal unresolved issues from childhood, suggesting a need for healing.
  • Research shows that playfulness, often linked to childishness, is crucial for social bonding and emotional well-being across all ages.
  • Developmental psychologists emphasize that maintaining a child-like perspective can significantly enhance life satisfaction.

Origin of 'childishness'

The word 'childishness' originated from the Middle English word 'childisch,' which meant 'befitting a child.' Over time, it evolved to encompass both the negative connotation of immaturity and the positive connotation of innocence and playfulness. The concept of childishness has been explored in various literary works and psychological studies, highlighting its complex nature in human behavior and development.

See also: child, childbearing, childbirth, childfree, childhood, childish, childishly, childless, childlessness, childlike, childminder, children.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,093 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.