youthful

[yooth-fuhl]

adjective

1. characterized by youth; young.

2. of, relating to, or befitting youth.

   youthful enthusiasm.

3. having the appearance, freshness, vigor, etc., of youth.

   She is 60 but her optimism has kept her youthful.

4. in an early period of existence; early in time.

5. Physical Geography.,  (of topographical features) having undergone erosion to a slight extent only.

youthful

/ ˈjuːθfʊl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, possessing, or characteristic of youth

2. fresh, vigorous, or active

   he's surprisingly youthful for his age

3. in an early stage of development

   a youthful culture

4. Also: young. (of a river, valley, or land surface) in the early stage of the cycle of erosion, characterized by steep slopes, lack of flood plains, and V-shaped valleys Compare mature old

Other Word Forms

• youthfully adverb
• youthfulness noun
• preyouthful adjective
• unyouthful adjective
• unyouthfully adverb
• unyouthfulness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of youthful¹

First recorded in 1555–65; youth + -ful

Synonym Study

See young.

Example Sentences

The only remaining option was the progressive and youthful People's Party, the largest in parliament.

From BBC

Even if fans want to separate the artist from news stories about the man, it’s difficult given that Allen’s films often reflect an obsession with youthful — and occasionally underage — women.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite falling to a 42-0 defeat by one of the World Cup favourites, Lynn's youthful side showed plenty of green shoots to work with moving forward.

From BBC

They chose Long Beach because of its proximity to the beach for surfing and a preponderance of youthful — but not too youthful — vibes.

From Los Angeles Times

Butts bounce with a youthful recoil while tight close-ups capture hands with hot pink painted fingernails slapping against taut thighs.

From Salon

Related Words

• adolescent 
• boyish 
• childish 
• childlike 
• enthusiastic 
• girlish 
• inexperienced 
• underage 
• young