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

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

From The Last of the Vikings by Bowling, John

"Our chaplain attempted to teach me to write," he said, "but all my letters were formed like spear-heads and sword-blades, and so the old shaveling gave up the task."

From Ivanhoe by Scott, Walter, Sir

I don't care what a shaveling says: so I mean just to go and wish, and I won't sacrifice anything.

From The Gold Of Fairnilee by Lang, Andrew

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

"That dull shaveling loves us not, fair Ella," said Ned Dyram.

From Agincourt The Works of G. P. R. James, Volume XX by James, G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford)