neotenic
1
9.9
Having childlike features in adult life
- adjective
- /niˈɑːtənɪk/
- Specialized
:
neoténico
- More to the point, this neotenic standard of attractiveness is unattainable for the average postmenopausal woman, leaving her with fears of lost attractiveness and femininity that are difficult to act on.
Examples
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Many breeds of dogs exhibit neotenic traits, such as larger eyes and playful behavior, which make them seem more juvenile than their wild ancestors.
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The neotenic characteristics of this species allow it to maintain a youthful appearance throughout its life, unlike other animals that mature more rapidly.
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Scientists study the neotenic features of certain amphibians to understand how juvenile traits can persist into adulthood.
Synonyms
1
9.9
Showing young features, like large eyes, in an adult animal or person
has identical meaning but uses a different adjective ending
How Juvenile
Surface Forms
neotenic positive
Morphology
Etymology
The word neotenic comes from the root neo- meaning 'young', and it describes adults who keep childlike or baby features. So animals like axolotls and some dog breeds are called neotenic because they keep a 'young' look even when fully grown.