youngster

American  

[yuhng-ster] / ˈyʌŋ stər /

noun

1. a child.

2. a young person.

   Synonyms:

   girl, boy, stripling, lad, youth

3. a young horse or other animal.

4. (in the British navy) a midshipman of less than four years' standing.

5. (in the U.S. Naval Academy) a midshipman in the second year.

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youngster British  

/ ˈjʌŋstə /

noun

1. a young person; child or youth

2. a young animal, esp a horse

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Etymology

Origin of youngster

First recorded in 1580–90; young + -ster

Example Sentences

Aitch was discovered as a youngster by local entrepreneur Michael Adex, founder of the talent management company NQ, while spitting bars at a local open mic night.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

As the two old men told their stories, a youngster brushed past them, a machete slung over his shoulder.

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

But with the scores level, Arteta turned to 16-year-old Dowman, alongside £64m summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, and the youngster turned the game in his side's favour.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

Arteta has previously hinted at comparisons between Dowman's ability and one of the world's best ever players Lionel Messi, and the youngster continues to impress whenever he is in the side.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

After they left, the frightened youngster was able to flag down a passing car on the highway.

From "Because They Marched" by Russell Freedman

Related Words

• boy
• child
• girl
• juvenile
• kid
• pupil
• student
• teenager
• youth