Definition

Having characteristics or behavior typical of a schoolboy, often implying innocence or playfulness.

Example

His schoolboyish charm made everyone smile.

Conversation

Did you see how he acted at the party last night?

Yeah, he was a bit too schoolboyish for my taste.

I guess he just doesn't know how to be serious sometimes.

True, but it can be fun to let loose like that occasionally.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Schoolboyish → It is formed from "school" (from Old English *scol*, meaning a place of learning) and "boyish" (from "boy" and the suffix "-ish" meaning resembling or characteristic of). The word "schoolboyish" describes behavior or characteristics that are typical of a schoolboy.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'school' as a place of learning and 'boyish' as resembling a boy — together, they describe someone who acts like a schoolboy.

Visually Confused Words