The Village Idiom

second childhood

The idiom "second childhood" refers to a period in a person's life when they exhibit childlike behavior and interests, often due to old age or illness.

Time & pace · Filed under S

In a sentence

  • My grandfather loves to play with toys and act silly; I think he's entered his second childhood.
  • After retiring, Mary decided to travel the world and try new activities, embracing her second childhood.
  • When the power went out, the adults started playing hide and seek, engaging in a playful second childhood.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The concept of "second childhood" is often associated with the idiom "come of age." While "come of age" typically refers to the transition from adolescence to adulthood, it can also describe a later stage in life where individuals experience a rediscovery of their childlike qualities. This is similar to the idea of a second childhood, where adults embrace a carefree and playful mindset, free from the responsibilities of adulthood.

The idiom "grow up" is often used to encourage someone to mature and assume adult responsibilities. In contrast, the idiom "grow out of" suggests the natural progression of individuals out of certain behaviors or stages. When someone experiences a second childhood, they may temporarily "grow out of" their adult mindset and revert to a more childlike state of being. This can manifest in various ways, including a renewed sense of wonder, spontaneity, or playfulness.

Lastly, the phrase "over the hill" is another idiom commonly associated with the concept of second childhood. "Over the hill" is often used humorously to describe people who have reached a certain age where they may romantically reminisce about their youthful days while also embracing a carefree and fun-loving outlook. This aligns with the notion of second childhood, as it highlights a period of life where individuals embrace their inner child while reflecting on their past experiences.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.