Cub Meaning and Definition
Cub
Pronunciation
/kub/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A young or baby animal of a large mammal, such as a bear, lion, or seal, typically dependent on its mother for milk and protection.
Examples
- The cub was adorable and playful.
- The mother lion cuddled her cub tightly.
Synonyms
- Calf
- Kitten
- Pup
Antonyms
- Adult
- Wild
Etymology
The word “cub” comes from the Latin word “cubus,” meaning “die-cut” or “cube-shaped.” This likely refers to the shape of the early stages of a developing mammal.
Usage Notes
Use “cub” to refer to the young of bears, lions, and seals, among other animals. Avoid using it to refer to the young of birds or reptiles.
Cultural References
Cubs have appeared in many popular films and television shows, including the classic Disney movie “The Jungle Book” and the BBC series “Planet Earth.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Phrases such as “cubs in the jungle” or “cubs of the wild” are often used metaphorically to describe children or young people growing up in a challenging environment.
Related Words or Phrases
- Offspring
- Youth
- Seedling
Collocations
- Playful cub
- Curious cub
- Small cub
Frequency of Use
The word “cub” is moderately common in English and is often used in informal writing and everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
- Cube
- Cuber