Cradling: meaning, definitions and examples

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cradling

 

[ ˈkreɪ.dlɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

holding gently

Cradling refers to the act of holding someone or something closely and gently in one's arms. This action often conveys a sense of love, care, or protection. It can apply to various scenarios, such as a parent cradling a baby, or someone cradling an object to prevent it from falling. The term emphasizes a nurturing gesture that is often associated with safety and comfort.

Synonyms

embracing, holding, rocking, supporting

Examples of usage

  • She was cradling the baby in her arms.
  • He cradled the fragile vase carefully.
  • The mother cradled her child to soothe him.
  • They were cradling the puppy as they walked home.

Translations

Translations of the word "cradling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 acolhendo

🇮🇳 गोद में लेना

🇩🇪 wiegen

🇮🇩 menggendong

🇺🇦 колихання

🇵🇱 kołysanie

🇯🇵 抱く (だく)

🇫🇷 bercer

🇪🇸 acunar

🇹🇷 kucaklama

🇰🇷 안다 (anda)

🇸🇦 احتضان (ihtidan)

🇨🇿 kolébání

🇸🇰 kolísanie

🇨🇳 摇晃 (yáohuàng)

🇸🇮 zibanje

🇮🇸 vagga

🇰🇿 тербету

🇬🇪 საჭე (sache)

🇦🇿 sallanmaq

🇲🇽 mecear

Etymology

The word 'cradle' originates from the Old English word 'cradol', which means 'a bed, a cot'. Its etymology can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root *kradwō, meaning 'to rock' or 'to sway'. Over time, the usage evolved, and 'cradle' became associated more specifically with the act of holding a baby. The word 'cradling' is derived from the verb form of 'cradle', indicating the action of holding something gently. In literature and language, cradling often symbolizes care and tenderness, deepening its association with emotional connections. The notion of cradling extends into various facets of culture and traditions, often linked with maternal care and nurturing practices throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,636, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.