Rob the cradle: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Rob the cradle” mean?

"Rob the cradle" means to be in a romantic relationship with someone significantly younger than oneself.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's definitely robbing the cradle with his new girlfriend.

Example

I can't believe she's robbing the cradle again with her latest boyfriend.

Example

Everyone thinks he's robbing the cradle with his choice of partner

Is “Rob the cradle” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Rob the cradle” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Rob the cradle” effectively in context?

You can use "Rob the Cradle" to describe a romantic relationship where one person is significantly younger than the other. It often implies that the age difference is notable or unconventional. For example, if someone is dating a much younger person, you might say, 'He's definitely robbing the cradle with his new girlfriend.'

• 1. Relationships

  She raised eyebrows when she started robbing the cradle with her latest boyfriend.

• 2. Gossip

  Everyone thinks he's robbing the cradle with his choice of partner.

• 3. Judgment

  People often face criticism when they rob the cradle in their relationships.

Similar phrases to “Rob the cradle”:

Cougar

An older woman who seeks romantic relationships with younger men

Example

She's known as a cougar because she prefers dating younger men.

May-December romance

A romantic relationship between partners with a significant age difference

Example

Their relationship is a classic May-December romance.

Age is just a number

The belief that age should not be a barrier to romantic relationships

Example

They believe that age is just a number and love knows no bounds.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Rob the cradle” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Rob the Cradle" is unknown.

Is “Rob the cradle” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Rob the Cradle" is relatively common in everyday conversation, especially when discussing relationships with significant age differences. It is often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner.

What tone does “Rob the cradle” have?

"Rob the Cradle" conveys a tone of amusement or mild disapproval. It is often used to comment on relationships with large age gaps, highlighting the unconventional nature of such pairings.

Can “Rob the cradle” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Rob the Cradle" is more commonly used in informal settings and casual conversations. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional situations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's definitely robbing the cradle with his new girlfriend.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to rob the cradle!' to imply starting a relationship with a much younger person.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• date someone younger
• be with a younger partner
• have an age-gap relationship
• pursue a may-december romance

Antonyms

• date someone older
• be with an older partner
• have an age-matched relationship
• pursue a same-age romance