babe in the woods

Definition

A person who is innocent, naive, inexperienced, or helpless, especially with respect to an unfamiliar situation or environment.

Etymology

From the ballad "The Children in the Wood".

Example Sentences

• ""Orde, you're all right on the river," said Newmark, with a dry little laugh, "but you're a babe in the woods at this game.""
• "Taylor is aware of the perception that he is the innocent, exploitable babe in the woods of the Geelong defence."