Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbeɪbi/

Definitions

• 1. Baby: A very young child, especially one newly or recently born.
• 2. Baby: A very young offspring of a mammal.
• 3. Baby: An immature or undeveloped form of something.
• 4. Baby: A term of endearment used for a loved one, especially a romantic partner.

Usage Examples

• "She just had a baby and is now on maternity leave."
• "The baby cow was following its mother."
• "This smartphone is the baby of the new technology lineup."
• "He called her 'baby' in the sweetest way."

Etymology

The word "baby" comes from the Middle English term "babye," which is a childlike or playful term for an infant, likely derived from baby talk or imitative speech. It has been used since the 14th century, with its meaning evolving to refer to young children and, in some contexts, to someone treated with affectionate care or tenderness.

Synonyms

Infant, newborn, toddler, child, youngster, babe

Antonyms

Adult, grown-up, senior, elder

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "baby" remains relatively consistent across English-speaking regions, though accents may influence the subtle sound of the vowel. In American English, it may be pronounced with a more relaxed vowel sound, while British English maintains a more rounded and distinct vowel sound. In some non-native English regions, the word may be pronounced more phonetically according to the local accent.

Historical Usage

Throughout history, the word "baby" has always been tied to the concept of a very young child. In early English usage, the term was often used informally and colloquially, becoming a symbol of vulnerability, care, and affection. Over time, the word extended into affectionate terms for romantic partners and has been used widely in popular culture, including music, movies, and literature. The notion of "baby" as a symbol of innocence, purity, and the beginning of life remains prevalent in modern society.

Cultural Nuances

In various cultures, the word "baby" is not only used to describe an infant but can also be a term of endearment used in relationships between adults, especially romantic ones. In Western popular culture, the term has been associated with a variety of positive emotions such as affection, care, and tenderness. In some Asian cultures, the term "baby" is used similarly but can also reflect parental expectations for children to be well-cared for and protected. The word’s use has expanded into different contexts to reflect varying degrees of importance or tenderness across different societies.

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