1. a naive person; someone who lacks worldly experience or sophistication
Usage: literary

1. naive; showing a lack of worldly experience or sophistication
Usage: literary

Examples

• The young artist was a naif who believed everyone in the gallery world had pure intentions.
• Her naif questions about politics revealed how sheltered her upbringing had been.
• The novel’s protagonist is a naif who gradually learns about life’s complexities.
• His naif trust in strangers often got him into trouble.
• The painting had a naif quality that reminded viewers of folk art.
• She approached the business world as a complete naif.