Definition

The quality or state of being immature or behaving like a child.

Example

His childishness often got him into trouble with his friends.

Conversation

I think we should stop arguing over small things; it feels a bit like childishness.

I agree, sometimes we just need to let things go and move on.

Yeah, being overly competitive can really bring out that childishness in us.

Exactly! It’s much better when we focus on having fun together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Childishness → It is formed from "child" (from Old English "cild", meaning a young human being) and "-ish" (meaning having the qualities of) and "-ness" (meaning the state or condition of). The word "childishness" refers to the state or condition of having the qualities of a child, often implying immaturity or naivety.

Memory Tip

Think of the qualities of a 'child' and how 'childishness' means having those child-like qualities, often in a way that seems immature.

Visually Confused Words