Babysit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ถ
babysit
[หbeษชbiหsษชt ]
Definition
child care
To babysit means to take care of a child or children temporarily. This typically involves supervising the child, ensuring their safety, and engaging them in activities while their parents or guardians are away. Babysitting can occur in the childโs home or the babysitterโs location and often takes place during evenings or weekends. Babysitters are usually paid for their services, and it is common for them to have some prior experience or training in child care.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I need someone to babysit my kids tonight.
- She started babysitting her neighbor's children when she was sixteen.
- He sometimes babysits for his cousin's baby.
- Can you babysit while I go to the store?
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, babysitting is not just an individual task; extended family members frequently help out with child care duties.
- Some parents hire professional babysitters, while others rely on teenagers in the neighborhood to assist with child care.
Pop Culture
- Babysitting has been a common theme in movies, like 'Adventures in Babysitting' (1987), showcasing the fun and challenges of looking after kids.
- The popular children's book series 'The Babysitters Club' explores the adventures and friendships of teenage girls starting their babysitting business.
Psychology
- Studies show that babysitting can enhance responsibility and leadership skills in young people who take on the role.
- Involving older siblings in babysitting can strengthen family bonds and teach empathy from a young age.
Technology
- With the rise of apps like 'Care.com' and 'Sittercity', finding and booking babysitters has become much easier for parents.
- Video monitoring technology enables parents to keep an eye on their children and babysitters from their smartphones.
Origin of 'babysit'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'babysit' originated in the USA around the 1930s, combining 'baby' and 'sit' to describe the act of looking after infants.
- Before 'babysit' became a popular term, the act was often referred to as 'nannying' or simply 'watching children'.
The term 'babysit' originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It combines the word 'baby', which has Old English origins, denoting a very young child, and the verb 'sit', which in this context means to take care of or supervise. The practice of babysitting likely became more common as families sought outside help to care for their young children, especially as mothers began to enter the workforce. Over the years, the idea of babysitting has evolved, with many parents seeking sitters not only for child supervision but also for engaging children in fun and educational activities. The profession has since become a popular way for teenagers and young adults to earn income while gaining experience in childcare.