Kidlike

adj. joyful, hopeful playful

What it means

Showing a child's appealing curiosity, openness, or delight.

Reach for it when praising youthful wonder without suggesting immaturity

Her kidlike excitement made the first snowfall feel new to everyone.

Words to choose between 6

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
playful
  • Kidlike (this word)
everyday
warm
professional
formal
literary
  • everyday

    playful

    Fits when lighthearted fun is the specific quality

    Careful Playful does not carry kidlike openness or innocence.

  • everyday

    youthful

    Fits when energy and freshness matter most

    Careful Youthful may refer to appearance rather than attitude.

  • warm

    childlike

    Fits when innocence or wonder deserves gentle praise

    Careful Childlike should not excuse poor judgment.

  • professional

    curious

    Fits when eagerness to discover is what helps

    Careful Curious is age-neutral and loses the youthful warmth.

  • formal

    innocent

    Fits when freedom from cynicism is central

    Careful Innocent can make an adult sound unaware of ordinary realities.

  • literary

    wide-eyed

    Fits when fresh wonder is visible in a response

    Careful Wide-eyed may imply naivety where competence matters.

Opposites 3

  • jaded
  • cynical
  • solemn

Common phrases 3

  • kidlike wonder

    He greeted the migrating cranes with kidlike wonder.

  • kidlike delight

    Kidlike delight spread across her face when the tiny train moved.

  • kidlike curiosity

    Their kidlike curiosity turned the tide pool into an afternoon of discovery.

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated