Babying: meaning, definitions and examples

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babying

 

[ ˈbeɪ.bi.ɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

implying care

Babying refers to the act of treating someone in an overly indulgent or protective manner, as if they are a baby. This behavior often involves being excessively attentive or doing things for someone that they are capable of doing themselves. While it may stem from a desire to protect or show affection, babying can also hinder personal growth and independence. It is typically seen as negative when it prevents an individual from taking on responsibilities.

Synonyms

coddling, indulging, pampering, spoil.

Examples of usage

  • She is babying her son by doing his homework for him.
  • Stop babying your friend; they need to learn to stand on their own.
  • He felt frustrated because his mother kept babying him even as an adult.

Translations

Translations of the word "babying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mimar

🇮🇳 बच्चे जैसा व्यवहार करना

🇩🇪 verhätscheln

🇮🇩 mengasuh seperti bayi

🇺🇦 балувати

🇵🇱 rozpieszczać

🇯🇵 赤ちゃん扱いする

🇫🇷 chouchouter

🇪🇸 mimar

🇹🇷 şımartmak

🇰🇷 애처럼 다루다

🇸🇦 دلال

🇨🇿 rozmazlovat

🇸🇰 rozmaznávať

🇨🇳 宠爱

🇸🇮 razvajati

🇮🇸 vannandi

🇰🇿 бала сияқты қарап шығу

🇬🇪 ბავშვივით მოქცევა

🇦🇿 uşaq kimi davranmaq

🇲🇽 mimar

Etymology

The word 'babying' is derived from the noun 'baby,' which comes from the Middle English 'babye,' and has its roots in the Old French 'babil,' meaning 'to talk nonsense' related to the sounds made by infants. It first emerged in the English language in the late 14th century. The verb form, 'to baby', began to take shape in the 19th century, reflecting a broader social trend towards child-rearing practices that prioritized attachment and protection. The concept of 'babying' reflects the societal shifts in parenting styles, emphasizing emotional bonding over strict discipline. Over time, as societal views evolved, 'babying' came to refer not just to caring for infants but also to adopting an overly protective attitude toward older children or adults, often sparking discussions about independence and personal responsibility.