1. a child raised by foster parents; a child not born to the family that raises it
Usage: somewhat formal or literary

Examples

• The fosterling was welcomed into the household as a beloved member of the family.
• In medieval times, noble families often took in fosterlings to strengthen political bonds.
• She grew up as a fosterling and never knew her biological parents.
• The fosterling thrived under the care of his adoptive guardians.
• Many fosterlings develop deep attachments to their foster families over the years.