B1noun2K

Childhood

UK /["/ˈtʃaɪldhʊd/"]/US /["/ˈtʃaɪldhʊd/"]/

Definition

the period of somebody’s life when they are a child

In simple words: The time when you are a child.

Examples

  • My childhood was filled with happy memories of playing outside.
  • Many people believe that childhood experiences shape our adult lives.
  • She has fond childhood memories of visiting her grandparents during summer vacations.
  • In many cultures, childhood is celebrated with special rituals and traditions.
  • The book explores the challenges of childhood in difficult environments.

Usage notes

Use 'childhood' to discuss experiences, memories, or stages of life in a neutral context. It's appropriate in both written and spoken language. Avoid in formal contexts where more specific terms might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'child' + 'hood' as the 'neighborhood of being a child'.

Collocations

  • carefree
  • good
  • happy
  • have
  • spend
  • recall
  • days
  • years
  • event
  • during childhood
  • from childhood
  • in childhood
  • scenes from somebody’s childhood

Synonyms

  • youth
  • early years
  • infancy
  • premenstrual period

Antonyms

  • adulthood
  • maturity

Common mistakes

  • Using 'childhoods' as a plural form.
  • Confusing with 'child' and 'children'.
  • Omitting it when talking about a person's past.