n. (pl. youths) 1 the state of being young; the period between childhood and adult age. 2 the vigour or enthusiasm, inexperience, or other characteristic of this period. 3 an early stage of development etc. 4 a young person (esp. male). 5 (pl.) young people collectively (the youth of the country). youth club (or centre) a place or organization provided for young people's leisure activities. youth hostel a place where (esp. young) holiday-makers can put up cheaply for the night. youth hosteller a user of a youth hostel.
[ OE geoguth f. Gmc, rel. to YOUNG ]