youngin

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/ˈjʌŋɡɪn/
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A colloquial reference to a youthful individual, typically used in informal contexts to convey familiarity or emphasize lack of experience.

Examples

  • Hey youngin, watch your step.
  • My brother was still a youngin when he learned to drive.
  • We met a couple of youngins at the park.
  • Even as a youngin, she showed great talent.
  • The story follows a youngin navigating city life.

Similar words

adolescent
teen
kid
junior
youth
sprout

Meanings

Usage

Use youngin when speaking informally about a youthful person, especially to add a friendly or teasing tone.

Common mistakes

Using youngin for an adult, as in He’s a youngin, is incorrect.

Etymology

From young with the diminutive suffix -in, recorded in early 20th‑century American slang.

FAQ

What does youngin mean?

youngin is slang for a young person, often used in a friendly or teasing way.

Is youngin a noun or a verb?

It functions as a noun; it is not used as a verb.

Can youngin be used for adults?

No, it is normally reserved for youths; using it for an adult sounds odd.

What is the plural of youngin?

The regular plural is youngins.

Where did the term youngin come from?

It derives from the word young with the diminutive suffix -in, appearing in early 20th‑century American slang.

Is youngin considered offensive?

It is generally informal and affectionate, not offensive, though tone matters.

How is youngin used in music?

Rappers often address listeners as youngin to create a casual vibe.

Can I say youngin in formal writing?

It is best avoided in formal contexts; stick to young person or youth.

Is youngin related to young'un?

Yes, young'un is a variant spelling with the same meaning.

What are some synonyms for youngin?

Synonyms include youth, kid, teen, adolescent, junior, and sprout.

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