cradle

[ˈkreɪdl]

cradle Definition

  • 1a small bed for a baby, especially one that moves gently from side to side
  • 2to hold something carefully and protectively
  • 3to support something in its early stages of development

Using cradle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cradle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The baby was sleeping peacefully in her cradle.

  • Example

    He cradled the fragile vase in his arms.

  • Example

    The organization aims to cradle new businesses until they become self-sufficient.

cradle Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for cradle

Phrases with cradle

  • to take care of young children

    Example

    She decided to stay at home and rock the cradle instead of pursuing a career.

  • a person who is romantically involved with someone much younger than themselves

    Example

    Many people criticized him for being a cradle snatcher when he started dating his girlfriend who was 20 years younger than him.

  • a person who enters into a romantic relationship with someone significantly younger than themselves, often with the implication that the relationship is motivated by the younger person's perceived naivete or vulnerability

    Example

    He was accused of being a cradle robber when he started dating his 18-year-old student.

Origins of cradle

from Old English 'cradol', meaning 'little bed'

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Summary: cradle in Brief

The term 'cradle' [ˈkreɪdl] refers to a small bed for a baby that moves gently from side to side. It also means to hold something carefully and protectively or to support something in its early stages of development. Examples include 'The baby was sleeping peacefully in her cradle.' and 'The organization aims to cradle new businesses until they become self-sufficient.' Phrases like 'rock the cradle' and 'cradle snatcher' are also used.