Wet behind the ears

Meaning

The idiom "wet behind the ears" means someone who is inexperienced, naive, or new to something. It refers to a person who has not yet learned or understood something fully and is therefore still learning or growing. This phrase is often used to describe someone who has not been exposed to certain experiences, situations, or knowledge that would normally be expected of them based on their age or background.

Usage

• She was only wet behind the ears when she started her first job.
• We knew he was green behind the ears when he proposed to her.
• The new student was still wet behind the ears and didn't know anyone in class.
• As a child, I was wet behind the ears and didn't understand what was happening around me.
• Even after years of experience, he was still wet behind the ears when it came to politics.

Roots and History

The idiom "wet behind the ears" dates back to at least the 16th century, as evidenced by its use in William Shakespeare's play "As You Like It." The phrase comes from the literal meaning of "wetting the ears," which refers to someone who is unfamiliar with something and needs to be educated or informed. Over time, the idiom has taken on a figurative meaning that specifically refers to inexperience or naivety.

Synonyms in English

• Greenhorn
• Newcomer
• Novice
• Amateur
• Neophyte

Synonyms in other languages

• Español: novato
• French: néophyte
• German: Neueinsteiger
• Italian: novato
• Portuguese: novato

Similar Idioms

• on the other hand

• hold your feet to the fire

• wag the dog