Babyish describes behavior, speech, or interests that seem more suitable for a much younger child, especially a baby or toddler. When someone acts babyish, they might whine, throw tantrums, or refuse to do things they're capable of doing independently.

A six-year-old who sucks their thumb and talks in baby talk is acting babyish. A ten-year-old who refuses to tie their own shoes when they know perfectly well how, or who cries dramatically when asked to clean their room, might be called babyish by frustrated parents or siblings.

The word often carries criticism or teasing. Kids might call something babyish to distance themselves from younger childhood: “That cartoon is babyish, I don't watch it anymore.” Sometimes this judgment is fair, sometimes it's just kids trying to seem more grown-up than they really are.

Some genuinely childish behaviors, like constantly interrupting adults or refusing to share, can hold people back from the independence and respect they want. Growing up involves gradually leaving babyish habits behind: learning to express frustration with words instead of tears, solving problems instead of giving up, and taking care of yourself instead of depending on others for everything.