adj
childlike
CHYLD-lyk
adj
1
Having the innocent, trusting, or curious qualities typical of a child.
"She approached every new experience with childlike wonder."
"His childlike enthusiasm for the project was contagious."
How to Use Childlike
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving the good, innocent qualities of a child — wonder, trust, curiosity — used as a compliment.
Common mistake
Unlike "childish," which is critical, "childlike" is almost always a positive description.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
childlike wonder
childlike innocence
Word Forms
more childlike comparative, most childlike superlative
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She approached every new experience with _____ wonder.
Etymology
Formed from "child" plus the suffix -like.