childly

[ chahyld-lee ]

adjective

1. Rare. childlike; childish.

Word History and Origins

Origin of childly¹

First recorded before 900; child, + -ly ( def )

Example Sentences

When in the midst of nature nursed, Sweet influences fell, On childly hearts that were athirst, Like soft dews in the bell Of tender flowers, that bowed their heads, And breathed a fresher smell.

From Project Gutenberg

God have pity on his gentle, childly heart, howsoever it be.”

From Project Gutenberg

“Ah! you have kept much of the childly heart,” answered Philippa smiling.

From Project Gutenberg

Let fogs not blind thee, Thou spirit childly!

From Project Gutenberg

I took it away and wiped her face, which looked at me so childly, so elfish, so willful, and so tenderly, that I took it between my hands and kissed it.

From Project Gutenberg