kid

Kid is a term in English with multiple meanings. The most common are a human child and a young goat. The word also functions as a verb meaning to tease or joke, and as a nickname or informal form of address.

As a human child, “kid” refers to a young person, typically younger than an adolescent. It is informal and affectionate and widely used in everyday speech across many English-speaking regions. In formal writing or when clarity is required, terms such as “child” or “young person” are often preferred.

In zoological and agricultural contexts, a “kid” is a juvenile goat. The term is standard in farming, veterinary, and animal-keeping language and is used to describe goats from birth through early development.

As a verb, “to kid” means to joke or fool someone. Used in phrases like “don’t kid me” or “they were just kidding,” it conveys lighthearted deception or playfulness rather than serious wrongdoing. The word also appears as a nickname or informal epithet for various public figures or fictional characters, reflecting a casual or affectionate usage.