What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
infant
Example
The infant was sleeping soundly in her crib. [infant: noun]
Example
The doctor recommended a special formula for the infant's sensitive stomach. [infant: adjective]
baby
Example
The baby was crying and needed a diaper change. [baby: noun]
Example
She held her baby close and sang a lullaby to soothe him. [baby: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Baby is a more commonly used term than infant in everyday language. It is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts and is often used as a term of endearment.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between infant and baby?
Infant is a more formal term than baby, and is often used in medical or scientific contexts. Baby is a more casual and common term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.