Caretaking: meaning, definitions and examples

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caretaking

[ˈkɛərˌteɪkɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

job responsibility

The act of taking care of another person or thing, often in a professional capacity. It involves providing assistance, support, and supervision to ensure the well-being of the individual or object.

Synonyms

caregiving, maintenance, supervision.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
caretaking	Usually refers to the act of looking after property, buildings, or sometimes animals, focusing on physical maintenance rather than personal care. She is responsible for the caretaking of the estate while the owners are away. The school's caretaker does all the caretaking activities, like mending fences and painting walls.
caregiving	Specifically involves providing personal care and support to someone who needs assistance, such as elderly or ill individuals. After her mother fell ill, she took on the role of caregiving full-time. There are many emotional and physical challenges associated with caregiving.
maintenance	Focuses on the regular upkeep and repair of equipment, buildings, or machinery to ensure everything remains in good working condition. The maintenance of the HVAC system is essential for keeping the office comfortable. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs in the future.
supervision	Involves overseeing and managing people or processes to ensure tasks are completed correctly, often in a work or educational setting. Her job involves the supervision of a team of salespeople. During the final exam, strict supervision is mandatory to prevent cheating.

Examples of usage

She works in caretaking, looking after elderly residents in a nursing home.
The caretaking of the historic building includes regular maintenance and cleaning.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

emotional aspect

The emotional investment and attention given to someone or something. It can involve nurturing, protecting, and tending to the needs of the person or object.

Synonyms

attending, nurturing, protecting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
caretaking	Caretaking is typically used in the context of taking care of someone or something, often in a role that involves responsibility and maintenance. It is commonly associated with roles like a caretaker for a property or for an elderly person. She spent her weekends caretaking her grandfather's estate. He has a job caretaking at the local school during the summer.
nurturing	Nurturing is used when referring to the act of caring for and encouraging the growth or development of someone or something, often in a gentle and supportive manner. It is frequently used in the context of raising children or supporting someone's personal growth. She is nurturing her child's interest in music. The teacher has a nurturing approach to her students.
protecting	Protecting is used when someone or something is being kept safe from harm or danger. It emphasizes defense and safeguarding. He is protecting the wildlife in the area. She felt a strong sense of protecting her younger siblings.
attending	Attending is often used in situations where someone is present and participating or observing an event, meeting, or individual. It implies active engagement or presence. She is attending a conference in New York this week. He is attending to the needs of the customers.

Examples of usage

Her caretaking of the stray kittens showed her compassionate nature.
The caretaking of the garden requires dedication and love.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'caretaking' comes from combining 'care' from Old English 'carian', meaning 'to be anxious or concerned', and 'taking', which implies receiving or holding something.
Usage of the word became widespread in the English language in the 20th century, reflecting changing societal views on responsibility for others.

Psychology

Engaging in caretaking can foster feelings of empathy and compassion, important traits for emotional intelligence.
People who frequently engage in caretaking roles can sometimes experience caregiver burnout, highlighting the importance of self-care and balance.

Cultural Context

Different cultures have unique definitions of caretaking; in many Indigenous cultures, caretaking extends to the environment, emphasizing stewardship of the land.
In many societies, caretaking roles have traditionally been assigned to women, which raises discussions about gender roles and societal expectations.

Medicine

In healthcare, caretaking involves providing not just physical support, but also emotional and psychological assistance to patients.
The concept of holistic care integrates the caretaking tradition, focusing on treating the whole person rather than just symptoms.

Pop Culture

Movies often portray caretakers as heroes, illustrating the challenges and rewards of looking after others, like in 'The Pursuit of Happyness'.
Popular literature frequently explores themes of caretaking in familial relationships, showing how these ties influence personal growth and identity.

Translations

Translations of the word "caretaking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cuidados

🇮🇳 देखभाल

🇩🇪 Pflege

🇮🇩 perawatan

🇺🇦 догляд

🇵🇱 opieka

🇯🇵 世話

🇫🇷 soins

🇪🇸 cuidado

🇹🇷 bakım

🇰🇷 보살핌

🇸🇦 رعاية

🇨🇿 péče

🇸🇰 starostlivosť

🇨🇳 照顾

🇸🇮 nega

🇮🇸 umönnun

🇰🇿 қамқорлық

🇬🇪 ზრუნვა

🇦🇿 qayğı

🇲🇽 cuidado