youthful
6 synonyms and 4 antonyms for youthful, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Looking or behaving young, often despite one's actual age.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use youthful
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
youthful appearance
youthful enthusiasm
Etymology
Formed from youth plus -ful.
Full origin of youthful →Frequently asked questions
What does “youthful” mean?
The word “youthful” means looking or behaving young, often despite one's actual age. In plain terms, having the look, energy, or spirit of a young person.
How do you pronounce “youthful”?
“Youthful” is pronounced YOOTH-fuhl (/ˈjuθfəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “youthful” in a sentence?
Here is “youthful” used in a sentence: “She has a remarkably youthful appearance for someone in her sixties.”
What part of speech is “youthful”?
“Youthful” is an adjective.
Is “youthful” a common word?
“Youthful” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "youthful" and "young"?
"Young" states an actual age, while "youthful" describes looking or behaving young, often despite one's actual age. Someone can be described as youthful in their sixties if they appear or act younger than their years.
Can "youthful" be used to describe things other than people, like energy or appearance?
Yes, "youthful" is commonly applied to qualities such as energy, appearance, enthusiasm, or skin, describing them as having the vigor or freshness associated with young age. It's a flexible adjective used well beyond describing a person's age directly.
Is "youthful" always a compliment?
"Youthful" is generally used positively, praising someone's vitality or appearance as looking or behaving younger than expected. It's rarely used negatively, though it can occasionally imply immaturity depending on context.
