shaveling

American  

[sheyv-ling] / ˈʃeɪv lɪŋ /

noun

1. Older Use: Disparaging. a clergyman with a shaven or tonsured head.

2. a young fellow; youngster.

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shaveling British  

/ ˈʃeɪvlɪŋ /

noun

1. derogatory a priest or clergyman with a shaven head

2. a young fellow; youth

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Etymology

Origin of shaveling

First recorded in 1520–30; shave + -ling ¹

Example Sentences

For I am no shaveling ignoramus, but a gentleman of birth; aye, and one who, though poor, is a near cousin of the marshal himself.

From The Black Douglas by Richards, Frank

A fig for you and your shaveling Cardinal!'

From Under the Red Robe by Weyman, Stanley John

Clear the room, officer, and let not one shaveling monk put his nose within again, until I send for him.

From The King's Achievement by Benson, Robert Hugh

And they have not made a shaveling of you, after all.

From The Strolling Saint; being the confessions of the high and mighty Agostino D'Anguissola, tyrant of Mondolfo and Lord of Carmina in the state of Piacenza by Sabatini, Rafael

Well, shaveling," said he, "thou hast said thy prayers, I perceive.

From The Last of the Vikings by Bowling, John