The correct spelling of "Puerilities" can be tricky, but knowing its phonetic transcription can help. The first syllable is pronounced /pyu̯ər/, like "pure" with a "yoo-er" sound at the beginning. The second syllable is pronounced /ɪˈlɪti/, with the stress on the second syllable and a short "i" sound followed by "lity". The plural "ies" ending is pronounced /iz/. So, altogether, "Puerilities" is pronounced /pyu̯ər.ɪˈlɪti.iz/, meaning childish or juvenile behavior, often referring to the behavior of adults.
Puerilities is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being puerile, or displaying behavior considered childish, immature, or trivial. Derived from the Latin word "puerilis," meaning "of or pertaining to a boy," puerilities describe acts, expressions, or ideas that are characteristic of or intended for young children.
In a literary context, puerilities can denote works of literature that are shallow or of little significance, often aimed at a juvenile audience. It suggests a lack of intellectual depth, literary value, or sophistication in the content or style of a particular work. Puerilities in literature typically encompass stories, poems, or writings that are considered frivolous, trivial, or lacking in depth, artistic merit, or social importance.
In a broader sense, puerilities can also describe behaviors or actions that are considered immature, silly, or insignificant in the context of adult life. This can encompass anything from thoughtless pranks, trivial pursuits, or foolish jokes to expressions of immaturity or a lack of seriousness in one's demeanor or approach to life.
Overall, puerilities connote an element of childishness, immaturity, or triviality and are often used to dismiss or criticize works, behaviors, or ideas that lack depth, seriousness, significance, or artistic value.
The word puerilities derives from the Latin word puerilitas, which is a noun form of the adjective puerilis. Puerilis translates to childish or youthful in English. The word ultimately originates from the Latin word puer, meaning boy or child.