INFANT

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈɪn.fənt/

Definitions

• A very young child, especially one who is not yet able to walk or talk.
• A person or thing in an early stage of development or growth.
• In legal terms, a person under the age of legal adulthood, often under the age of 18, but this may vary by country.

Usage Examples

• The infant cried for food after a long nap.
• She had to care for the infant after birth.
• The company is still in its infancy, with many ideas yet to be realized.

Etymology

The word "infant" comes from the Latin word "infans," meaning "unable to speak," from "in-" (not) and "fari" (to speak). The term evolved in the 14th century into the English word "infant" to refer to a very young child.

Synonyms

• Newborn
• Baby
• Neonate
• Toddler (sometimes used interchangeably)
• Child (in some contexts)

Antonyms

• Adult
• Grown-up
• Teenager
• Senior

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation may vary based on accent or dialect. In British English, the stress is slightly more emphasized on the first syllable, whereas in American English, the first syllable is often pronounced more evenly.

Historical Usage

Historically, the term "infant" referred primarily to children in the first year of life. Over time, it broadened to include any young child or even a figurative term for the early stages of development of any entity.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of infancy is crucial in various cultures, as the infant stage is often associated with innocence, purity, and the beginning of a new life. Different cultures may have unique rites or celebrations marking the infancy period.

More Information

Infancy is a crucial stage in the developmental process. During this period, the brain, immune system, and basic bodily functions are rapidly developing. The care and environment during this time can have long-lasting effects on a child's future health, behavior, and abilities. In modern usage, "infant" can also refer to the earliest phase of any growing process, such as in business or technology, where it signifies the formative years before maturity.