Junior: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in academic or school settings to refer to students in their third year of study, especially in high schools and universities in some countries.

• Steve is a junior in high school this year.
• Juniors are preparing for their final exams.

Used to describe a young person in their teenage years or early adulthood. It can also refer to young people collectively. The term often carries a positive connotation of potential and vigor.

• The youth of today are very tech-savvy.
• In his youth, he traveled extensively.

Informal and affectionate term used to refer to a child or teenager. It can be used in everyday conversation or in a friendly manner.

• The youngsters were playing in the park.
• She's a lively youngster with a lot of energy.

Legal or formal term used to describe someone who is not yet an adult, typically under the age of 18. Also used in law to indicate a person who does not have certain legal rights or responsibilities due to their age.

• Minors are not allowed to purchase alcohol.
• The movie is rated as restricted for minors.

Commonly used in a high school or college setting to describe a student who is in their third year of study out of four. This term is also utilized in workplaces to denote employees with less experience or lower ranking.

• As a junior, she began to think more seriously about her future career.
• The junior employees are required to attend an additional training session.

Explicitly refers to a student who is in their third year of study, commonly used in both high school and university settings. This term is more formal and specific than 'junior'.

• The third-year students are preparing for their end-of-year examinations.
• As a third-year student, he decided to take on more challenging courses.