Children or Chidren
Which Spelling is Correct?
Understanding the correct spelling of "Children" or "Chidren", this plural noun and common misspellings.
❌ Incorrect: Chidren
Why it's wrong: This is a misspelling of "children." The correct spelling includes the "l" after "chi-".
Common Error: Omitting the "l" in the word
✅ Correct: Children
Definition: Plural of child; young human beings below the age of puberty or below the legal age of majority.
Part of Speech: Noun (plural)
Synonyms for Children
Kids
Informal term for children
Minors
People under the age of legal adulthood
Youth
Young people collectively
Juveniles
Young persons; not yet adults
Usage Examples
Correct: "The children played in the park."
Incorrect: "The chidren played in the park."
Correct: "All the children received gifts."
Notes:
- • "Children" is pronounced as /ˈtʃɪldrən/
- • The word comes from Old English "cildru" (plural of "cild")
- • "Children" is always plural; the singular is "child"
- • Remember: The "l" comes after "chi-" in "children"
- • Commonly confused in fast writing or typing
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do people misspell "children" as "chidren"?
A: This misspelling often occurs because the "l" sound is subtle in pronunciation, leading to its omission in writing. Fast typing or unfamiliarity with the word can also cause this error.
Q: What is the origin of the word "children"?
A: The word "children" comes from Old English "cildru," the plural of "cild" (child). Over time, the spelling and pronunciation evolved to the modern form.
Q: Is "children" ever singular?
A: No, "children" is always plural. The singular form is "child."
Summary
Children is the correct spelling. It is the plural form of "child" and refers to young human beings. "Chidren" is a misspelling that omits the "l" and should be avoided.