Used more in older generations; may not resonate with younger audiences who prefer contemporary slang. Grandpa called the new intern a whippersnapper for trying to change the old filing system.
Pro Tip 2/3
Mildly Disparaging
Often used in a playful or mild rebuke, not usually to seriously insult someone. The teacher smiled and called the most outspoken student a little whippersnapper.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not for Professional Settings
Avoid in formal or professional contexts; it's casual and might seem unprofessional or patronizing. In the board meeting, referring to the young CEO as a whippersnapper wouldn't be appropriate.