childlike

adjective

child·​like ˈchī(-ə)l(d)-ˌlīk 

: resembling, suggesting, or appropriate to a child or childhood

especially : marked by innocence, trust, and ingenuousness

childlike delight

childlikeness noun

Examples of childlike in a Sentence

a grown woman with a childlike face

We gazed at it in childlike wonder.

She took a childlike glee in describing every detail.

Recent Examples on the Web

This doesn’t mean gem nails have to be childlike or loud, though; today’s styles feature daintier stones that shine brightly and are more refined than bulky, costume gems. —Jesa Marie Calaor, Allure, 8 Apr. 2026

But obviously there is a part of me, there’s a part of all of us, that is very childlike and innocent and has hope. —Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2026

This section features collages, handwritten notes, and paintings that explore themes of adolescence, vulnerability, and alienation through childlike figures. —Robert Lang, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2026

In this extraordinary moment, we're reminded that wisdom often comes in the smallest whispers, and true courage lies in following where we're led with childlike trust. —New Atlas, 29 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for childlike

• alike
• belike
• birdlike
• catlike
• christlike
• deathlike
• dislike
• dreamlike
• friedreich
• godlike
• hairlike
• homelike

Kids Definition

childlike

adjective

child·​like ˈchīl(d)-ˌlīk 

1

: resembling, suggesting, or suitable to a child or childhood

2

: showing the more pleasing qualities (as innocence or trustfulness) often thought to be those of children

childlike delight