Definition of kiddie

The origin of the word "kiddie" can be traced back to the late 19th century. It is believed to have emerged as a contraction of the word "childie," which was a term of endearment commonly used in England during that time. The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) offers the following explanation: "Kiddie...is probably a diminutive and pet form of child, childie being common in the 19th century as a term of affectionate address and especially as a nickname." The word "kiddie" gradually came into use in the United States as well, where it became incorporated into various aspects of popular culture. In the early 20th century, "kiddie shows" and "kiddie theaters" began to emerge as part of the entertainment industry. These shows and theaters were specifically designed for children and often featured performances by child actors. During the mid-20th century, the term "kiddie rides" also emerged as a way to describe amusement park rides and attractions that were intended for young children. These rides were typically smaller and less intense than the more thrilling attractions aimed at older riders. Today, "kiddie" is still commonly used in a variety of contexts, ranging from the trivial (such as when referring to child-sized clothing or toys) to the more serious (such as when describing the victims of a heinous crime). However, the term has also been subject to criticism, with some critics arguing that it perpetuates notions of childhood innocence and vulnerability that can be both patronizing and outdated.