How Do You Spell YOUNG?

Pronunciation: [jˈʌŋ] (IPA)

The word "young" is spelled with five letters and pronounced as /jʌŋ/. It begins with the consonant sound /j/, followed by the vowel sound /ʌ/ and ends with the nasal consonant sound /ŋ/. The spelling of the word "young" is consistent with English language phonics rules which dictate that the letter "y" can represent the consonant sound /j/ at the beginning of a word, while the combination of "ou" represents the sound /ʌ/. The final "ng" cluster represents the nasal sound /ŋ/.

YOUNG Meaning and Definition

  1. Young, when used as an adjective, refers to a state or condition of being in the early stages of life or development. Primarily associated with chronological age, it describes individuals who have not yet reached maturity or old age. The term young encompasses the period from childhood to adolescence and, more broadly, extends to cover the first stages of adulthood.

    Young is often used to describe someone who displays characteristics or attributes associated with youthfulness such as vitality, energy, and a fresh perspective. It can also refer to the concept of newness or novelty. In terms of age groups, young usually refers to individuals who are in their teens or twenties, but its application can be subjective and context-dependent.

    Additionally, young can be used metaphorically to describe objects, organizations, or concepts that are recent, innovative, or still evolving. This use carries connotations of being less established or experienced, yet filled with potential and possibilities.

    In sum, young is an adjective that denotes a stage of life or development characterized by youthfulness, vigor, and a lack of maturity. It refers to individuals in their formative years and can extend to encompass a broader sense of novelty and freshness. Whether used literally or metaphorically, young captures the essence of being in the early stages of growth and adaptation.

  2. • The offspring of animals.
    • Being in the early part of life or of growth; not long born; having little experience; ignorant.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for YOUNG *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for YOUNG

Etymology of YOUNG

The word "young" originated from the Old English word "geong", which in turn has its roots in the Proto-Germanic language. The Proto-Germanic root word is "jungaz", which means "young" or "youthful". It is related to the Old Frisian word "iung", the Old Saxon word "jung", the Old Norse word "ung", and the Gothic word "juggs". These words all share the same meaning of "young". The word "young" has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning and form throughout history.

Idioms with the word YOUNG

  • an old/a wise head on young shoulders The idiom "an old/a wise head on young shoulders" refers to someone who is young in age, but possesses a level of maturity, intelligence, or wisdom that is typically associated with someone much older. It suggests that the person demonstrates excellent judgment and understanding beyond their years. This phrase is often used to compliment or acknowledge a young individual who possesses exceptional wisdom, intelligence, or maturity in their thoughts, decisions, or actions. It implies that they possess qualities typically found in individuals who have had more life experience or are older.
  • young at heart The idiom "young at heart" refers to someone who is enthusiastic, lively, and displays a youthful spirit, regardless of their actual age. It describes a person who remains mentally and emotionally youthful, embracing a positive outlook on life and maintaining a sense of fun and adventure.
  • young lady/man The idiom "young lady/man" refers to a polite way of addressing a person, usually a girl or boy, emphasizing their youthfulness and implying the expectation of respectful behavior or proper manners.
  • young love The idiom "young love" refers to the intense and passionate feelings of romantic attraction experienced by individuals in their youth or adolescence. It typically describes the affectionate and idealistic emotions associated with one's first romantic relationships or crushes during their teenage years. These relationships are often characterized by naivety, innocence, and a sense of excitement or infatuation.
  • those whom the gods love die young The idiom "those whom the gods love die young" means that, often, individuals who are exceptionally talented, virtuous, or accomplished in some way, may die at a young age. It implies that these individuals are taken away by the gods or fate prematurely because they are beloved or favored by higher powers. This phrase suggests that an early death is a sign of divine favor or acknowledgement of greatness.
  • Whom the gods love die young The idiom "Whom the gods love die young" denotes that those who are greatly loved or favored by the gods, or fate, tend to have their lives cut short. This expression implies that a premature death is a consequence of being beloved by higher powers or having exceptional qualities.
  • an old head on young shoulders The idiom "an old head on young shoulders" refers to someone who possesses wisdom, maturity, or a level of responsibility beyond their years. It implies that the individual demonstrates qualities typically associated with older, more experienced individuals, despite being relatively young or lacking in experience.
  • Better be an old man's darling than a young man's slave The idiom "Better be an old man's darling than a young man's slave" suggests that it is preferable to be favored and cherished by an older person, typically someone more mature and experienced, rather than being subservient and controlled by a younger person. This phrase emphasizes the importance of valuing wisdom, security, and stability over youth and potential exploitation in relationships or partnerships.
  • young blood The idiom "young blood" refers to a person or group of people who are young, energetic, and bring a fresh perspective or new ideas to a particular situation or organization. It often implies that their youthfulness and vitality can inject new energy and innovation into established systems or practices.
  • not as young as one used to be The idiom "not as young as one used to be" is often used to suggest that someone is aging or getting older. It implies that the person may not have the same level of stamina, energy, or physical ability as they did in their youth. It highlights the natural process of aging and the changes that come with it.
  • good die young The idiom "good die young" is a poetic expression that implies that virtuous or exceptional individuals often pass away prematurely or at a young age. It suggests that individuals who possess qualities such as goodness, talent, or moral excellence are more prone to early demise compared to those who do not possess these qualities.
  • (The) good die young. The idiom "(The) good die young" implies the belief or observation that virtuous or morally upright individuals often die at a young age. It suggests that individuals who possess admirable qualities or lead exemplary lives are more likely to experience an untimely death compared to those who are less noble.
  • with young The idiom "with young" typically refers to describing animals that are pregnant or have recently given birth. It is most commonly used when talking about mammals, particularly wildlife or farm animals.
  • young turk The idiom "young Turk" refers to a young person who is ambitious, radical, or rebellious in their ideas and actions. It often implies a person who challenges authority, conventional wisdom or traditional ways of doing things. The term derives from the Young Turks, a political reform movement in the late Ottoman Empire during the early 20th century.
  • (have) an old head on young shoulders The idiom "(have) an old head on young shoulders" refers to someone who displays wisdom, maturity, or intelligence beyond their years. It suggests that despite being young, they possess a level of wisdom and thoughtfulness typically associated with someone older.
  • angry young man The idiom "angry young man" refers to a person, typically a young adult or artist, who is characterized by rebelliousness, frustration, and a strong desire for social or political change. It originated in the mid-20th century to describe a particular group of British playwrights and novelists who expressed their discontent with society through their works. The term has since been expanded to encompass individuals who display similar qualities or attitudes.
  • be, stay, etc. young at heart The idiom "be, stay, etc. young at heart" means to maintain a youthful and lighthearted attitude, regardless of one's age. It refers to possessing a positive outlook, enthusiasm, and a willingness to approach life with childlike wonder and optimism. It implies experiencing joy, maintaining a sense of playfulness, and having an open-minded and youthful spirit.
  • bright young thing The idiom "bright young thing" refers to a young person who is lively, fashionable, and charismatic. It often implies that this person is from an affluent or privileged background and is known for their active social life and participation in fashionable events and activities.
  • you can't put a wise head on young shoulders The idiom "you can't put a wise head on young shoulders" means that young individuals typically lack the experience and maturity to make wise or knowledgeable decisions. It suggests that wisdom and understanding require time and life experience, which come with age.
  • you can't put an old head on young shoulders The idiom "you can't put an old head on young shoulders" means that it is impossible for a person to possess the experience, wisdom, and maturity that comes with age when they are still young. It emphasizes that some lessons can only be learned through time and life experiences, and that expecting someone to have the perspective of an older, wiser person when they are young is unrealistic.
  • only the good die young The idiom "only the good die young" refers to the notion that virtuous or morally upright individuals often die prematurely or at a young age. It suggests that those who lead exemplary lives and are considered to be good people are more susceptible to an untimely death, while individuals who are less virtuous may live longer. This phrase is often used to express the tragic loss of someone who was seen as kind, generous, or righteous.
  • love's young dream The idiom "love's young dream" refers to the early stage or period of romantic love, often characterized by strong feelings of infatuation, idealization, and optimism. It is a state where the lovers are consumed with passion and have high hopes for their future together. This phrase is typically used to describe the idealistic and naive perception of love experienced by young couples, particularly in the early stages of a relationship.
  • young fogey The idiom "young fogey" refers to a young person who behaves or holds opinions that are considered old-fashioned, conservative, or outdated, typically in contrast to others of the same age group. It describes someone who adheres to traditional values and styles that are more commonly associated with older generations.
  • be young at heart The idiom "be young at heart" refers to having a youthful or lighthearted attitude, regardless of one's age. It suggests that someone maintains a sense of optimism, curiosity, and playfulness, often associated with youthfulness. Instead of being weighed down by the responsibilities and challenges of adulthood, being young at heart implies embracing a joyful and vibrant outlook on life.
  • stay young at heart The idiom "stay young at heart" means to maintain a youthful attitude, mindset, or outlook on life regardless of age. It suggests staying enthusiastic, optimistic, and open-minded, embracing a sense of curiosity, playfulness, and joy in order to maintain a youthful spirit.
  • Young men may die, but old men must die
  • eat (one's) young To consume or destroy one's own offspring, often used figuratively to describe someone who mistreats or takes advantage of those who are younger or less experienced.
  • fresh/new/young blood The idiom "fresh/new/young blood" refers to new and energetic people who bring fresh ideas, perspectives, or energy to a group or organization. It typically implies a desire for innovation or change from the traditional ways of doing things.

Similar spelling words for YOUNG

Plural form of YOUNG is YOUNG

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