CALLOW Meaning and
Definition
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Callow is an adjective that describes a person, usually a young one, who is immature or inexperienced. It derives from the Old English word "calu," meaning "bare" or "bald," implying the lack of feathers or hair on a young bird. The term also relates to the notion of youth and lack of development seen in a callow bird or animal.
In its figurative sense, callow refers to someone who lacks sophistication, knowledge, or emotional maturity. It suggests that they are naive, inexperienced, and lacking in wisdom due to their youthfulness or inexperience in a particular area. Callow individuals may possess a tendency to act rashly or impulsively, perhaps due to their lack of understanding or judgment.
The term callow can be applied to various contexts, such as describing a callow teenager who lacks life experience, a callow employee who is inexperienced in their profession, or a callow lover who is unfamiliar with the complexities of romantic relationships. It implies a state of immaturity or a need for further growth and development.
Usage of callow typically conveys a sense of criticism or disapproval, suggesting that the person's behavior or thoughts are a result of their lack of experience or knowledge. However, it can also carry a more sympathetic tone, acknowledging the transitional period of youth and recognizing the potential for growth and development.
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Naked; destitute of feathers, as a bird.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for CALLOW *
* 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 CALLOW
Etymology of CALLOW
The word "callow" can be traced back to the Old English word "calu", which means "bald". However, its meaning has changed over time. In Middle English, it came to refer to a young bird that has no feathers, and by the 16th century, it began to be used figuratively to describe a young person who is immature or inexperienced. The transition in meaning likely occurred due to the association of young birds with being inexperienced and vulnerable.
Similar spelling words for CALLOW
- gallows,
- Calle,
- fallow,
- calaway,
- Calley,
- callous,
- Cahill,
- calla,
- glow,
- allow,
- aglow,
- cawley,
- Caley,
- callaway,
- Cahall,
- claw,
- cauley,
- tallow,
- Calloway,
- cal.,
- call,
- caul,
- Callie,
- CALO,
- cali,
- CAIL,
- call off,
- calls,
- Cale,
- Cal,
- Cayla,
- call for,
- wallow.
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