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

Large crowds gather at the Front Wave Stadium in Oceanside where thousands watch the Los Angeles Clippers G team play basketball while youth basketball leagues fill gymnasiums with multicultural teams of youngsters and their cheering, affectionate parents. —Mary Wolshok, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2025

Currently in post-production for a 2026 release, the drama retells the true story of a youngster raised by ostriches in the Sahara. —Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 31 Mar. 2025

Before intermission, a high-energy group of youngsters demonstrated Taekwondo moves, complete with loud shouts, dramatic music and the breaking of boards with feet. —Penny E Schwartz, Oc Register, 30 Mar. 2025

Anyone who came of age in the '80s will get a chuckle—or groan—out of the Walmart advertising inserts that cleverly have been turned into wallpaper of fresh faced youngsters in questionable jeans and haircuts. —John Oseid, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 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