noun
Often used in a slightly derogatory or familiar way for a young boy or inexperienced person. Can be affectionate or dismissive depending on context.
あの小僧はいつもいたずらばかりしている。
That brat is always up to mischief.
小僧のくせに生意気だ。
He's just a kid, but he's so cheeky.
noun
young Buddhist monk; novice monk
Specifically refers to a boy or young man training at a Buddhist temple. Not a general term for a young person.
寺の小僧が朝早くから掃除をしていた。
The young monk at the temple was cleaning from early morning.
noun
shop boy; errand boy; apprentice
Historical or traditional term for a young male apprentice or servant in a shop or business. Rare in modern contexts except in period settings.
江戸時代、商家の小僧は使い走りをしていた。
In the Edo period, shop boys ran errands for merchant houses.
坊主 is a more general term for a Buddhist monk, not necessarily young, and can also be used affectionately or derogatorily for a boy. 小僧 specifically implies youth and often carries a dismissive tone.
少年 is a neutral, standard word for a boy or juvenile. 小僧 is more colloquial and can be derogatory.
Compound of 小 (small, young) and 僧 (monk). Originally referred to a young Buddhist monk, later extended to young boys and apprentices.