Puerility: meaning, definitions and examples
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puerility
[ pjʊˈɛrɪlɪti ]
childish behavior
Puerility refers to the state or quality of being puerile, which is characterized by childishness or a lack of maturity. This term often implies a level of naivety and an unrefined approach to situations that require adult reasoning. Puerility can manifest in both actions and attitudes, often leading to a perception of immaturity or silliness. While youth can exhibit puerility naturally, it can also be seen in adults who display juvenile traits or sensibilities.
Synonyms
childishness, immaturity, juvenility.
Examples of usage
- His puerility was evident during the serious meeting.
- She rolled her eyes at his puerility when he started telling silly jokes.
- Despite her age, her puerility made her fit in more with her younger friends.
- The film was criticized for its puerility, failing to address deeper themes.
Translations
Translations of the word "puerility" in other languages:
🇵🇹 puerilidade
🇮🇳 बालपन
🇩🇪 Kindlichkeit
🇮🇩 kekanak-kanakan
🇺🇦 дитячість
🇵🇱 dzieciństwo
🇯🇵 幼稚さ
🇫🇷 puérilité
🇪🇸 puerilidad
🇹🇷 çocukça davranış
🇰🇷 유치함
🇸🇦 طفولية
🇨🇿 dětinství
🇸🇰 detstvo
🇨🇳 幼稚
🇸🇮 otroštvo
🇮🇸 barnaleikur
🇰🇿 балалық
🇬🇪 ბავშვობა
🇦🇿 uşaqlıq
🇲🇽 niñez
Etymology
The word 'puerility' originates from the Latin word 'puerilis', meaning 'boyish' or 'childish', which is derived from 'puer', meaning 'boy'. This term entered the English language in the early 17th century, maintaining the connotation of immaturity and childlike qualities. Over the centuries, the use of 'puerility' has expanded to encompass not only the behavior of children but also the traits exhibited by adults who fail to exhibit appropriate maturity in their actions or attitudes. The word has often been used in literary and educational contexts to critique individuals or behaviors that are deemed unsuitable for the circumstances, emphasizing the contrast between childlike innocence and the expectations of grown-up conduct.