Kiddo: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term likely originated in the 20th century as a playful variation of 'kid', making it sound more affectionate.
• It is thought to be influenced by the affectionate use of 'dude' among children and young adults.
• The playful tone of the word reflects the informal language style often seen in childhood interactions.

Cultural Use

• 'Kiddo' is commonly used in family settings or among friends, emphasizing a sense of closeness and familiarity.
• In popular media, the term is often used by adults when addressing children, especially in movies and cartoons.
• The word evokes a sense of playfulness, frequently appearing in children's literature and dialogue.

Psychology

• Using playful terms like 'kiddo' can strengthen emotional bonds between adults and children.
• Such informal nicknames can help children feel more accepted and loved, influencing their social interactions.
• The warmth associated with the word can help foster a positive and cheerful atmosphere in conversations.

Literature

• Various children's books have featured characters who refer to each other as 'kiddo', adding charm to their relationships.
• Authors often use the term to create relatable and friendly dialogues, making characters feel more accessible to young readers.
• Popular children's series frequently incorporate the word to maintain a light-hearted tone throughout the narrative.

This word's position of #33,729 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 33726 mantissa
• 33727 fritter
• 33728 wallop
• 33729 kiddo
• 33730 bobwhite
• 33731 unstinting
• 33732 vacuuming
• ...