The young Turk in the office wants to change all our old rules.
young Turk
idiomA young person who agitates for political or other reform; a young person with a rebellious disposition.
Origin
disputed originCalque of French Jeune-Turc, from which also Turkish Jön Türk has been borrowed.
As a young Turk in the local government, she constantly challenges the traditional policies of the senior committee members.
The political party struggled to contain the young Turk, whose radical proposals for reform threatened to dismantle the established hierarchy of the organization.
- 01
bright young thing
One who is youthful, clever, eager, and high-spirited in manner and attractive in appearance.
- 02
old head on young shoulders
Alternative form of good head on one's shoulders.
- 03
out-paramour the Turk
To have many romantic affairs.
- 04
sweet young thing
An attractive young woman.
- 05
young at heart
Having the joy and vitality associated with younger people, despite one's own advanced age.
- 06
young blood
Young or youthful people, especially as a source of revitalizing force (in a team, organization, etc.).
- 07
young fogey
A young and overly conservative person.
Last updated April 17, 2026