childhood

noun

child·​hood ˈchī(-ə)ld-ˌhu̇d 

1

: the state or period of being a child

2

: the early period in the development of something

Synonyms of childhood

• youth
• adolescence

Examples of childhood in a Sentence

diseases that can occur in childhood

Both men had unhappy childhoods.

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite Baxter’s childhood experience, diving has been life-altering, symbolically reminding her of own survival. — Amara Evering, Miami Herald, 11 July 2026

Rebuilding a decimated childhood The disaster has upended the daily lives of thousands of children. — Osmary Hernández, CNN Money, 11 July 2026

Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews, diagnosed in childhood, frequently checks his blood sugar levels during games. — ABC News, 11 July 2026

The notion of remaining in your childhood home well into your adult years carries an enduring stigma, suggesting a failure to launch. — Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 11 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing childhood

• childhood friend
• second childhood

Rhymes for childhood

• allgood
• basswood
• beechwood
• bellwood
• birchwood
• boxwood
• boyhood
• brushwood
• cordwood
• dogwood
• driftwood
• falsehood

Kids Definition

childhood

noun

child·​hood ˈchīld-ˌhu̇d 

: the state or time of being a child

Medical Definition

childhood

noun

child·​hood ˈchīld-ˌhu̇d 

: the state or period of being a child