figurative. The beginning or early period of youth, life, the world, etc. Obsolete.

The state of being a boy; the time of life during which one is a boy. Also figurative: the early period of something.

transferred and figurative. Early stage or period of existence.

Now usually in form pupilage. In extended use.

figurative. Early stage or period: = youth, n. 2b.

The time gone by, the past; also, the early days (of a city or state).

In plural. Early years or days.