youngster

noun

young·​ster ˈyəŋ(k)-stər 

1

a

: a young person : youth

b

: child

2

: a young animal or plant especially of a domesticated or cultivated breed or type

Synonyms

• bairn [chiefly Scottish]
• bambino
• bud
• chap [Southern & Midland]
• chick
• child
• cub
• juvenile
• kid
• kiddie
• kiddy
• kiddo
• moppet
• sprat
• sprout
• squirt
• whelp
• youngling
• youth

Examples of youngster in a Sentence

As a youngster, he was very shy.

bright-eyed youngsters interested in learning

Recent Examples on the Web

Adding to the excitement: these youngsters are supported by the Paramount’s professional design and technical staff, and will perform in full custom on its historic stage. —Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2025

But a lack of clarity is to be expected from this group of youngsters. —Josh Robbins, New York Times, 17 June 2025

The core of this Panthers’ roster finished the job last year, and then there’s Brad Marchand, the 37-year-old midseason acquisition who also has that championship DNA, winning it all as a youngster with the 2011 Boston Bruins. —David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 15 June 2025

Known for his athleticism, the 22-year-old McDowell played football as a youngster. —Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 14 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

youngster

noun

young·​ster ˈyəŋ(k)-stər 

1

: a young person : youth

2

: child sense 2a