Younger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ถ
younger
[หjสลษกษr ]
Definition
age comparison
The term 'younger' is a comparative form of the adjective 'young', used to describe someone or something that has less age than another entity. It is often utilized in comparisons to indicate a relative youthfulness. The usage of 'younger' can refer to biological age, maturity levels, and even concepts or objects that are newly introduced or developed in comparison to others. Contextually, it is very common in familial or social settings, for instance, when discussing siblings, friends, or colleagues.
Synonyms
immature, junior, more youthful.
Examples of usage
- She is younger than her brother by five years.
- The younger generation is more tech-savvy.
- Younger students often benefit from mentorship.
- They are looking for younger employees to bring fresh ideas.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that younger individuals often exhibit more creativity and a willingness to take risks compared to older people.
- Studies suggest that youth can be associated with greater adaptability to change and new ideas.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, youth is celebrated and often associated with vitality and opportunity.
- The idea of 'youth culture' in the 1960s led to significant social changes, with younger generations challenging traditional norms.
Pop Culture
- The popular song 'Forever Young' talks about the desire to maintain the spirit of youth throughout life.
- Movies often portray younger characters as adventurous and full of potential, contrasting them with their older counterparts.
Science
- Biologically, younger organisms tend to regenerate faster and have higher metabolic rates compared to older ones.
- In the study of aging, scientists explore how younger cells can provide insights into longevity and health.
Origin of 'younger'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'younger' comes from the Old English 'geongra', which meant young or youthful.
- It is a comparative form of 'young', meaning it is used to compare age between two things.
The word 'younger' originates from the Old English word 'geong', which signifies 'young' or 'youthful'. It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic term '*jungas', which reflects the same meaning of youth. The comparative form 'younger' emerged as an evolution of the base term with the addition of the comparative suffix '-er'. The usage of 'younger' can be traced back through Middle English, where 'yongere' was used in the same sense. Over the centuries, its application expanded in English vernacular to express not just age, but also often denote someone who exhibits less experience or maturity in a given context.