Word of the day: Hobbledehoy

Hobbledehoy

[HA-bəl-dee-hoy]

Part of speech: noun

Origin: Unknown, mid-16th century

A clumsy or awkward youth.

Examples of hobbledehoy in a sentence

"I felt like a real hobbledehoy at my first job."

"Now that Jennifer's braces were off, she was ready to leave behind her days of being a hobbledehoy."

About Hobbledehoy

Lexicographers are unsure on the specific origins of the word "hobbledehoy," although we do know that it was first used in the 16th century. The word's playful cadence, used as both a noun and an adjective, describes an awkward youth.

Did you Know?

Nearly everyone was a hobbledehoy at some point — it's a normal part of adolescence to feel a little awkward. Encouragement, praise, and support go a long way in helping your loved ones feel more confident in themselves as they grow up.