What is the Meaning of "Child"?

Definition of Child

Quick Meaning of Child

A young boy or girl who is not yet an adult.

Detailed Definition of Child

A young person, typically from birth to teenage years.

How to Pronounce Child

IPA: /tʃaɪld/

child

Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).

Tip: The 'ch' sounds like 'ch' in 'chop'. Say it clearly: /tʃaɪld/.

Full pronunciation guide for “child” →

Origin and Etymology of Child

From Old English 'cild', meaning young person.

How to Use Child in a Sentence

Each example shows “child” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

“The child ran to her mother for a hug.”

A1 daily
“Every child in the school learns to read.”

A1 formal
“When I was a child, I wanted to be a doctor.”

A2 conversation

Synonyms and Antonyms of Child

Common Synonyms for Child

Smart Synonyms for Child — When to Use Each

kid: use in informal speech and everyday conversation
youngster: use when emphasizing youth in formal writing

Antonyms of Child

adult
parent

See all synonyms for “child” →

Common Collocations with Child

These phrases pair with “child” in everyday English:

newborn child
young child
child care
only child
child safety

Common Mistakes When Using Child

Even fluent speakers slip up with “child”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: He have many childs in his family.: ✓ Correct: He has many children in his family.; Why: The plural of child is children, not childs. Also, third person singular verb is 'has'.
✗ Wrong: When I am a child, I play outside every day.: ✓ Correct: When I was a child, I played outside every day.; Why: Use past simple (was/played) for actions in your childhood, not present tense.

Other Forms of Child

Noun: child
Adjective: childish