Definition

Not having the qualities or characteristics of a child; often refers to behavior or attitudes that are considered too mature or serious for a child.

Example

His unchildlike behavior surprised everyone at the party.

Conversation

I saw a kid acting really unchildlike at the park yesterday.

Oh really? What was he doing that seemed so strange?

He was arguing with another child about money, which felt odd.

Yeah, that does sound unchildlike. Kids usually just want to play.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unchildlike → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "childlike" (from "child" (from Old English *cild*, meaning young human) and "-like" (meaning resembling or characteristic of)). The word "unchildlike" means not resembling or characteristic of a child.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'childlike' to remember that 'unchildlike' describes something that does not have the qualities or characteristics of a child.

Visually Confused Words