Kid: meaning, definitions and examples

Informal term for a child, often used in casual conversation. It is appropriate for everyday speech but not in formal or professional settings.

• The kids are playing in the yard.
• He's a good kid; he always helps his friends.

Standard term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It refers to a young human being, typically between infancy and puberty.

• Each child in the classroom received a book.
• My child loves to draw and paint.

Refers to the period of being young, typically between childhood and adulthood. It is more formal and often used in discussions about development, society, or demographics.

• The youth of today face many challenges.
• Programs to support youth in our community are essential.

Less common term for a child or young person, often used in a slightly nostalgic or affectionate way. Not typically used in very formal settings.

• The youngsters were excited to go on the field trip.
• As a youngster, he was always full of energy.

Refers to a young child or someone who is younger than the speaker. It can be informal.

• The kid next door loves to play soccer.
• Hey kid, you need to finish your homework.

Typically used to refer to a close friend in a casual manner, often used between males.

• Hey buddy, do you want to grab a beer later?
• Thanks for helping me move, buddy.

Another informal term for a friend, often used in a similar context as 'buddy' but can sometimes carry a slightly dated or old-fashioned tone.

• How's it going, pal?
• Me and my pals are going to the game tonight.

A more formal way to refer to someone with whom one has a bond of mutual affection.

• She's my best friend from high school.
• I made a new friend during my trip to Europe.

Informal context when referring to a child or young person, often used in everyday conversation.

• She picked up her kid from school
• The kids are playing in the backyard

General and neutral context when referring to multiple young people. Suitable for formal and informal situations.

• The children are learning about nature
• His children live in different cities now

Scientific or formal context when talking about the biological relationship between parents and their young.

• The bird carefully tended to its offspring
• Scientists studied the offspring of the rare species

Formal context when emphasizing lineage or generational succession, often used in historic or genealogical discussions.

• The king's descendants ruled for many generations
• They traced their family tree back to their early descendants