Baby Meaning and Definition
Baby
Pronunciation
/ˈbeɪbi/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A young human being, especially in the earliest stages of life, typically from birth to around one year of age.
Etymology
The word “baby” comes from Old English and Middle English, where it referred to a child or infant. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a range of meanings, including a young animal or a small, fragile creature.
Usage Notes
Baby is often used informally to refer to a young child, typically in a loving or affectionate tone. However, it can also be used more formally, such as in medical or scientific contexts, to describe a newborn or infant.
Cultural References
Baby has appeared in numerous songs, such as “Baby Love” by The Supremes and “Baby, One More Time” by Britney Spears. It has also been used in various film and television titles, including “Baby Boy” and “Baby Blues.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Baby and its related forms have given rise to several idiomatic expressions, including “baby steps” (small, gradually increasing changes) and “baby-sit” (to care for a child).
Related Words or Phrases
Words and phrases closely related to baby include infant, child, toddler, and youngster.
Collocations
Baby is often used in combination with words such as “little,” “sweet,” or “adorable” to convey a sense of affection or cuteness.
Frequency of Use
Baby is a relatively common word in modern language, appearing frequently in everyday conversation and in various media forms.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of baby include “bebie” and “babye.”