two-year-old

UK: ˌtuː jɪər ˈəʊld | US: ˌtuː jɪr ˈoʊld

Definition

  1. adj. describing something or someone that is two years in age

  2. n. a person, animal, or thing that is two years old

Structure
two <numeral 2>year <time unit>old <aged>
Etymology

The term "two-year-old" is a straightforward compound adjective/noun formed by combining the numeral "two," the time unit "year," and the adjective "old." This structure follows a common English pattern for indicating age (e.g., "five-year-old," "ten-year-old"). The hyphenation ensures clarity, treating the phrase as a single modifier or noun. The logic is transparent: it literally means "having an age of two years."

Examples

  1. The two-year-old toddler is learning to speak in full sentences.

  2. She adopted a two-year-old rescue dog from the shelter.

  3. This two-year-old smartphone still works perfectly.

  4. The museum offers free admission for two-year-olds.

  5. The two-year-old oak tree has grown significantly since last spring.