Is Whippersnapper a Bad Word?

The word whippersnapper describes a specific kind of bratty, know-it-all kid, and it's only used by an older person who is talking about a younger person. ... Around the same time, the word "whipperginnie" was a derogatory term

What does it mean when someone calls you a whippersnapper?

: a diminutive, insignificant, or presumptuous person.

Is whippersnapper a compliment?

Usually the adult takes it as a high compliment. If you're not a child then it could seem sarcastic to say that as you are already grown up. This is confirmed by his reaction (highly likely it was a man). To be called a whipper-snapper is not necessarily offensive, but it's certainly not a compliment.