childlike

adjective

Definition of childlikenext
as in naive
resembling or suggesting a child; like that of a child a childlike honesty He had a childlike innocence that others found endearing.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of childlike The android has a sunny outlook and a childlike wonder about the humans around her, with Ortega describing her as being on the complete opposite end of the spectrum from Wednesday Addams. — Rebecca Ford, Vanity Fair, 18 June 2026 From dopamine-spiking decor to more childlike, bright clothes, adults are romanticizing the smallest aspects of their lives and fully running with a lighthearted outlook. — Theara Coleman, TheWeek, 17 June 2026 This is a story devoid of childlike wonder, just the horrific evil men are capable of and the small acts of grace found in unspeakable circumstances. — Chris Nashawaty, Entertainment Weekly, 13 June 2026 Kone, who has no shortage of positive childlike qualities himself, grew super inquisitive. — Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for childlike
Recent Examples of Synonyms for childlike
  1. naive
  2. genuine
  3. simple
  4. true
  5. real
  6. natural
  7. unsophisticated
Adjective
  • Julius seems to have approached his spying with a sprightly, if naive, enthusiasm.
    — Amy Weiss-Meyer, The Atlantic, 10 July 2026
  • The show also depicts how the railroad set a precedent for other big businesses to lure in naive citizens seeking their own slice of the American dream.
    — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 9 July 2026
Definition of naive
Adjective
  • But his centre-forward qualities extend beyond pure physical strength, with Merino possessing genuine striker instincts, movement and anticipation.
    — Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 11 July 2026
  • Blend practical steps with genuine pleasure, and let steady progress feel more rewarding.
    — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 10 July 2026
Definition of genuine
Adjective
  • With the bulge-bracket firms the clear winners, choosing a VC has become simpler.
    — Robert Frank, CNBC, 14 July 2026
  • The original historic rooms feature heavy drapery, regal-looking bed frames, and simple baths.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 July 2026
Definition of simple
Adjective
  • This underscores how Apple's control over its devices, from hardware to software, limits true ownership and poses challenges for long-term digital preservation.
    — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • If religion is corrupted by breaking down the wall of separation, much the same is true of the state.
    — Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
Definition of true
Adjective
  • Now, more Americans are beginning to make the roughly three-hour car ride from Santo Domingo, trading the predictability of Punta Cana for something more real.
    — Rafael Peña, Miami Herald, 15 July 2026
  • Our research and experiences, along with that of other experts, show these two services can make a real difference.
    — Jane Callahan, The Conversation, 14 July 2026
Definition of real
Adjective
  • By triggering the release of a natural growth factor in the brain and modulating neural pathways associated with addiction and reward, ibogaine restores healthy dopamine function and reduces cravings, Barsuglia said.
    — Gavin Escott, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • This multitasking hair care product is known for reducing frizz, boosting shine, and hydrating split ends, and some natural oils even help with hair growth.
    — Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 5 July 2026
Definition of natural
Adjective
  • Sophisticated scams The days of thinking of scammers as unsophisticated, disjointed actors are over in 2026, according to Yoon.
    — Ella Moore July 2, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026
  • Phishing remains one of the most effective means of gaining access to accounts, despite the relatively unsophisticated technical prowess required.
    — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 29 June 2026
Definition of unsophisticated

Browse Nearby Words

childishness
childlike
children
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Cite this Entry

“Childlike.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/childlike. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of childlike for Spanish Speakers

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