childhood
UK: ˈtʃaɪldhʊd | US: ˈtʃaɪldhʊd
n. the state or period of being a child
n. the early stage in the development of something
The word "childhood" combines "child," derived from Old English cild (meaning "fetus, infant, or young person"), with the suffix "-hood," from Old English -hād (denoting a state or condition, akin to "-ness"). Over time, "-hood" became a productive suffix in English to form abstract nouns indicating a state or quality (e.g., "brotherhood," "neighborhood"). The fusion reflects a straightforward Germanic construction, where the root ("child") is preserved intact, and the suffix adds an abstract dimension. The word has retained its core meaning of "the state of being a child" since its Middle English usage.
Her childhood was filled with adventures in the countryside.
Childhood memories often shape our adult personalities.
The artist’s work reflects themes of innocence and childhood.
Advances in education have improved the quality of childhood for many.
He wrote a memoir about his difficult childhood in the city.