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Lactated: meaning, definitions and examples

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lactated

 

[ˈlækteɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

biological process

To lactate means to produce milk from the mammary glands. This process occurs in female mammals and is a critical part of nurturing offspring. Lactation typically begins after childbirth and plays a vital role in providing nutrition to newborns. The milk produced contains essential nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes necessary for the development and health of the young. Lactation can be influenced by various factors including hormonal levels and the frequency of suckling by the infant.

Synonyms

nurture, produce milk, secrete.

Examples of usage

  • The mother lactated for several months after giving birth.
  • Some animals lactate longer than others depending on their species.
  • The ability to lactate is vital for mammalian reproduction.
  • Women can experience challenges when trying to lactate after delivery.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Lactated' comes from the Latin word 'lac', meaning milk, which highlights its connection to milk production.
  • The term reflects a broader category of biological functions related to milk secretion, vital for many young mammals.
  • In scientific contexts, it often describes a process in mammals necessary for nurturing offspring.

Biology

  • The lactation process is controlled by hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin, crucial for milk production and release.
  • Different mammals have varying lactation periods; for instance, humans typically lactate for about 6 months to 2 years after birth.
  • Lactation provides essential nutrients and antibodies to the young, helping them develop a strong immune system.

Culture

  • In some cultures, breastfeeding is considered an important bonding time between mother and child, promoting emotional connection.
  • Lactation practices vary worldwide – some cultures have specific customs around breastfeeding, influencing social norms.
  • The rise in 'lactivism' advocates for breastfeeding rights and awareness, emphasizing its health benefits.

Health

  • Research shows that human breast milk adapts to the changing needs of the growing baby, making it unique among foods.
  • Lactation provides nutritional benefits not just for infants but can also have long-term health effects for mothers.
  • Failure to lactate can affect a mother's mental and physical health, highlighting the multifaceted role of lactation.

Psychology

  • The act of lactating can have psychological effects on mothers, often associated with feelings of nurturing and bonding.
  • Studies have shown that lactation can release endorphins, contributing to a mother’s emotional well-being post-birth.
  • Attachment theory highlights how breastfeeding can play a pivotal role in forming healthy emotional connections between mother and child.

Translations

Translations of the word "lactated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lactado

🇮🇳 दूध का उत्पादन किया गया

🇩🇪 laktierte

🇮🇩 dilaktasi

🇺🇦 лактація

🇵🇱 laktowany

🇯🇵 乳製品の

🇫🇷 lacté

🇪🇸 lactado

🇹🇷 süt veren

🇰🇷 유즙이 나온

🇸🇦 مُرضع

🇨🇿 laktovaný

🇸🇰 laktovaný

🇨🇳 乳制的

🇸🇮 laktiran

🇮🇸 mjólkað

🇰🇿 сүттен жасалған

🇬🇪 ლაქტირებული

🇦🇿 laktasiya olunmuş

🇲🇽 lactado

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,961, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.