Pronunciation: [jˈa͡ʊŋkə] (IPA) 
The word "younker" is a noun meaning a young person, typically a boy. The spelling of this word is based on the pronunciation in British English, where the "ou" sound is represented by the letters "ou". The IPA phonetic transcription of "younker" is /ˈjʌŋkə/. The "j" represents the sound "yuh", "ʌ" is the short "uh" sound, "ŋ" is the "ng" sound, and "kə" represents the short "uh" sound followed by the "r" sound.
Younker is a noun that refers to a young or young-looking person, especially a boy or a young man. This term can also be used to describe someone who is inexperienced or naive. The word is typically used in a colloquial or informal manner.
The primary meaning of "younker" is related to youth. In this context, it specifically denotes a young individual, often suggesting that they have a youthful appearance or behavior. It can be used to describe a boy or a young man, highlighting their youthful energy, qualities, or demeanor. For instance, one might say, "The group of friends was composed of younkers, always seeking adventure and trying new experiences."
In addition to its youth-related connotation, "younker" can also signify someone who lacks experience or is naive. This usage implies that the individual is relatively new to a particular situation or environment, and may be unaware of certain conventions or practices. For example, one might say, "The younker had just started his first job and was still learning the ropes."
Overall, "younker" is a versatile term that can describe both a young or young-looking person, as well as someone who is inexperienced or naive. Its usage is more common in informal conversations or written works that seek to capture a sense of youthfulness or novelty.
The word "younker" has its origins in Middle English, where it was spelled as "yeonker" or "yonker". It was borrowed from the Dutch word "jonker", which means "young lord" or "young nobleman". The term is believed to have entered English in the late 15th century as a direct borrowing from Dutch.
The Dutch word "jonker" itself is derived from the Old High German word "junc", meaning "young" or "youngster", ultimately tracing back to the Proto-Germanic word "jungkoz". This word referred to a young person, particularly a young nobleman or a youth of high birth.
Over time, the spelling of the word in English evolved from "yeonker" to "yonker" and eventually to "younker", which is the form commonly used today.
