also: わかいしゅう
noun
A somewhat old-fashioned or regional term for a young man, often used in traditional or rural contexts. Can carry a nuance of a junior member of a group.
村の若い衆が祭りの準備を手伝った。
The young men of the village helped prepare for the festival.
That young lad works hard, doesn't he?
noun
servant boy; young shopboy; apprentice
Historical or traditional term for a young male servant or apprentice in a shop, inn, or similar establishment. Not used in modern standard Japanese for regular employees.
江戸時代の商家では、若い衆が丁稚として働いていた。
In merchant houses of the Edo period, young servant boys worked as apprentices.