woman-child

A woman-child is an adult woman who exhibits childlike qualities—whether immaturity, emotional dependency, or a refusal to take on adult responsibilities.

The term typically carries negative connotations, suggesting someone who hasn't fully grown up despite their age: She's a total woman-child who still expects her parents to handle everything.

Less commonly, it can describe a female who is transitioning from childhood to adulthood, emphasizing the liminal space between girl and woman.